The right age to fall in love.

Adolescents exploring sexual aspects and engaging in intimate acts with romantic partners is a normal part of development. However, in India, adolescent romantic relationships are influenced by complex sociocultural factors. Legally, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012, creates a tug-of-war between age-appropriate developmental needs and legal obligations for children. This debate often overshadows real cases of child sexual abuse. Addressing this issue is crucial to protect children from all forms of sexual exploitation and promote their healthy development, as mandated by the act.