Need legal guidance on whether an adult can file complaints for childhood neglect/injuries (Indian law)

Legal Advice Needed

I am a 27-year-old male seeking clarification on Indian legal options regarding certain incidents from my childhood. I prefer not to post identifying details publicly and would appreciate guidance from lawyers here.

There were multiple incidents during my childhood involving unsafe supervision, long periods spent alone as a minor, exposure to chronic parental conflict, and physical injuries that left permanent scars. I also have recorded proof in which the individuals involved acknowledge these incidents occurred, and I want to understand how such admissions may affect the legal assessment.

I am specifically looking for clarity on whether the following offence categories and legal sections can apply when reported by an adult survivor:

Possible IPC Sections

• IPC 336 / 337 – Acts endangering life or personal safety of a child • IPC 320 / 325 – Grievous hurt (permanent disfiguration of face/head) • IPC 323 / 324 – Voluntarily causing hurt

Child Protection Laws

• Section 75, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 – Cruelty, neglect, emotional/physical harm • Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 – Clarification about employing a minor domestic helper who caused harm • Relevant sections of the Domestic Violence Act – Whether exposure to parental conflict causing mental trauma in a child is covered retroactively

My key questions:

  1. Can a 27-year-old male file a criminal complaint for incidents that occurred during childhood but resulted in lasting physical or psychological impact?

  2. Do any of the above offences qualify as “continuing offences,” allowing delayed reporting?

  3. Which offences have limitation periods, and which do not?

  4. Will police register an FIR in such cases, or is it more appropriate to approach a Magistrate directly under CrPC 156(3)?

  5. What types of evidence are acceptable when the events occurred years ago (e.g., permanent scars, witness accounts, recorded admissions)?

  6. Should I consult a criminal lawyer, someone experienced with JJ Act matters, or a child rights specialist?

I am not looking to defame anyone. I only need accurate legal information about whether these offences can still be reported or pursued and what the proper legal pathway is.

Just a FYI used gpt to generate this post.

Posted Dec 7, 2025, 11:52 PM UTC

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