Section 7 POCSO Act
Is it illegal to touch a child's private parts even without penetration?
Short answer
Yes, any sexual touching of a child's private parts is a criminal offence.
In detail
Under the law, any person who, with sexual intent, touches a child's vagina, penis, anus or breast, or makes the child touch those parts of themselves or another person, is committing sexual assault. The definition also covers any other physical contact done with sexual intent, even if there is no penetration. This provision is meant to protect children from any form of sexual exploitation that involves direct contact. The act treats such behavior as a serious crime, and the offender can be prosecuted and punished. It is the responsibility of everyone to safeguard children and to report any suspected abuse to the authorities promptly. If you witness or suspect such conduct, you should inform the police or child protection services right away, as the law requires swift action to protect the child's safety and well‑being.
Related questions
What actions count as penetrative sexual assault under the POCSO Act?
Any act where an adult causes penetration of a child's genital, anal or oral area with a penis, object, body part, or forces the child to do so.
What punishment does the law prescribe for penetrative sexual assault on a child?
The offender can be jailed for at least seven years, up to life, and must also pay a fine.
What punishment does a person face for committing sexual assault on a child?
They can be sentenced to three to five years in prison and may also have to pay a fine.
What punishment does the law impose for aggravated penetrative sexual assault on a child?
The offender is sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of at least ten years, which may go up to life, and also must pay a fine.
Not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts — speak to a lawyer about your situation.