Virtual Platforms And Real Harms: A Jurisprudential Analysis Of Virtual Sexual Offences In The Age Of Metaverse
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 21
- 1 min read
Jinu Samyuktha Padmakumar, LL.M Student at Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, Pune, Maharashtra.
Dr. Mitul Dutta, Assistant Professor, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, Pune, Maharashtra.
Prof Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Symbiosis International (Deemed) University, Pune, Maharashtra.
ABSTRACT
This research is an exploratory study of the criminalisation of sexual offences within the metaverse, a rapidly evolving concept that extends beyond traditional virtual worlds. As digital environments become increasingly immersive, the need for legal recognition of offences committed within them becomes pertinent. Metaverse is often dismissed as a mere "fake world," allowing it to evade significant legal scrutiny. The growth of immersive metaverses like Second Life, Roblox, and Meta’s Horizon has also increased the instances and reports of virtual sexual offences. The actions of avatars in the metaverse can have substantial real-world consequences, necessitating a reevaluation of current legal frameworks to address these digital delinquencies effectively. This research underscores the need to recognise and apply criminal law within virtual worlds while advocating for expanding the interpretation of traditional elements of crime, including virtual sexual offences.
Keywords: Virtual Sexual Offences, Metaverse, Avatar, Haptic devices, Mens Rea, Actus Reus, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
