Awareness and Attitudes of Indian Youth Toward Consent in Relationships
Submitted To: Ms. Mahima Kaushik
University: JECRC University, Jaipur
Submitted By: Harshit Sankhla
Roll Number: 23BALN0067
Assignment: 3
Date of Submission: 19 June 2025
Introduction:
In the context of evolving societal norms and increasing conversations around bodily autonomy
and legal protection, the idea of consent — especially in romantic or sexual relationships —
remains both crucial and under-discussed among Indian youth. Despite laws such as Section 375
of the IPC (now BNSS equivalents) and various judgments affirming the importance of consent,
real-life understanding among youth is often vague, influenced by social taboos, peer pressure,
and misinformation. This research aims to explore what today's college-going youth know and feel
about consent, and whether their understanding aligns with the legal and ethical standards expected
in a progressive society.
Interview Objective:
To assess:
• Youth understanding of consent (verbal/non-verbal)
• Situational awareness (drunk consent, peer pressure, online dating)
• Knowledge of legal consequences
• Gender perspectives
• Willingness to talk about or report violations
Interview Questions (along with mine answers):
1. What does “consent” mean to you in a relationship?
→ It means both people are on the same page—like, if I say yes, it means yes, and if I’m
unsure or uncomfortable, that’s also a no.
2. Do you think consent has to be verbal every time?
→ Not always, but it helps. Sometimes you can tell by body language or the vibe, but it’s
better to ask and be sure.
3. Have you ever felt pressured into saying “yes” when you actually wanted to say “no”?
→ Yeah, once or twice. Not like forced or anything, but I didn’t want to upset the other
person.
4. Do you believe your peers understand what real consent means?
→ Honestly, no. A lot of people still think a “yes” under pressure or while drunk counts.
5. Can someone take back consent after initially saying yes?
→ Of course. If they’re uncomfortable later, the other person should respect that.
6. Have you ever talked openly with your partner about consent?
→ Umm, not directly. It’s kind of awkward to bring up, but I think I should.
7. What do you think about consent in long-term relationships? Is it still needed?
→ Definitely. Just because you’re dating doesn’t mean you have rights over their body all
the time.
8. Are you aware of any Indian laws related to sexual consent?
→ Just a little. I know rape is defined based on consent and there’s some age rule, like
under 18 is illegal.
9. What do you think about the portrayal of consent in Bollywood or web series?
→ It’s getting better now, but older movies were terrible—like the hero forces the girl and
she falls in love. That’s not okay.
10. Do you think schools and colleges should include consent education in the syllabus?
→ Yes, for sure. We learn everything else but not the things we actually face in real life.
11. Have you ever had a friend confide in you about a situation where their consent was
ignored?
→ Yes, a girl in our class once said her ex didn’t listen to her when she said no. She didn’t
report it though.
12. Would you feel comfortable going to the police or college authorities if your consent
was violated?
→ Not really. I’d be scared of judgment and people finding out. Also, the system isn’t very
supportive.
13. Do you think men can also be victims in cases of ignored consent?
→ Yes. Society jokes about it, but it’s real. Guys don’t talk about it because of shame or
fear of not being believed.
14. Do you know what “enthusiastic consent” means?
→ I’ve heard the term. I think it means the person should be excited and clearly willing,
not silent or unsure.
15. What would you say to someone who doesn’t think consent is a serious issue?
→ I’d tell them it’s about respect. If you care for the person, you wouldn’t want to hurt
them or cross their boundaries.
Conclusion:
From the responses collected, it's evident that while many students have a basic idea of what
consent means, they often struggle with communication, social stigma, and lack of education on
the subject. Legal awareness is shallow, and the discomfort around the topic leads to silence rather
than action. This research highlights the need for comprehensive consent education, gender-neutral
legal protections, and safe spaces for youth to speak up.
