Law Commission Proposes Lowering Age Of Consent To 16 And Online FIR Filing

The Law Commission of India has finalized a report recommending a reduction in the minimum age of consent under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act from 18 to 16. Additionally, the commission has proposed legislation to enable the online filing of First Information Reports (FIRs).

Ritu Raj Awasthi, Chairperson of the Law Commission of India, noted that further work is needed to finalize the report on holding simultaneous elections in the country, often referred to as 'One Nation, One Election'. When questioned about the progress of the 'One Nation, One Election' report, Awasthi stated, "Some more work is required to be done, and we are still in the process of finalizing it," refraining from providing a tentative release date.

After the finalization of these recommendations, the 22nd Law Commission will forward its reports to the Ministry of Law and Justice.

This development follows a recent meeting of a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which discussed the feasibility of holding simultaneous elections in India. The committee examined various aspects, including the potential for a common voter ID card, a unified electoral roll, and necessary legal modifications.

The concept of simultaneous elections received support from the Law Commission in 2018, citing the burden of frequent elections and the need for a workable constitutional formula. The Election Commission of India has also endorsed the idea, emphasizing logistical, financial, and legal feasibility. However, opposition parties argue that it could favor the incumbent government.

Author: Anushka Taraniya

News Writer, MIT ADT University