The question (6 marks)
A bookshop sells an illustrated magazine, made up wholly of picture stories portraying acts of violence and cruelty, to Nikhil, who is nineteen. The shopkeeper says that Nikhil is an adult and that no law protecting children can apply to the sale. (a) Is the shopkeeper right? (b) What powers does the State Government have in respect of such a publication? (6 marks)
MU Module IV, Young Persons (Harmful Publications) Act 1956 and the ages across the children's statutes; pack ch. 04 and quick-reference sheet 4.
Plan your answer on paper before you look at the authorities — issue first, then the rule, then apply it to these facts.
It tests Unit 4 · Special Legislation for the Protection of Children of Law Relating to Women and Children.
Authorities you will need
- Young Persons (Harmful Publications) Act 1956, section 2(c)
- Young Persons (Harmful Publications) Act 1956, section 2(a)
- Young Persons (Harmful Publications) Act 1956
- Constitution of India, Article 24 and Article 21A
- Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986, sections 3 and 3A
How an answer is marked
A full-marks answer names the issue in one line, states the rule with its section, cites the authority, applies it to these facts and concludes — in that order. The app's model answer for this question is written in exactly that shape, with a checklist to mark your own attempt against.