The Supreme Court of India made notable observations while cancelling a rape conviction in a case where the victim later married the accused. A Bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma stated that the relationship between the two appeared consensual initially and that subsequent misunderstandings led to the criminal complaint.
During the hearing, the Bench remarked that their “sixth sense” suggested the two individuals would reunite, which eventually happened through marriage.
Case Background and Trial Court Verdict
According to the police chargesheet, a woman from Madhya Pradesh came into contact with the accused through social media in 2015. The two entered into a relationship and remained together for some time. However, disputes later arose regarding marriage.
In 2021, the woman filed a complaint alleging that the accused had repeatedly sexually assaulted her on the false promise of marriage. After trial, a sessions court convicted the man and sentenced him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment. The High Court later rejected his bail plea, prompting him to approach the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court’s Observations
The apex court observed that the complainant and the accused were consenting adults at the time of their relationship. It noted that the case appeared to stem from personal differences rather than criminal intent.
The judges stated that the relationship had deteriorated due to misunderstandings and added that they sensed reconciliation was possible, which later materialised.
Interim Bail and Marriage
Earlier, during a special hearing, the Supreme Court granted interim bail in July after both parties expressed willingness to marry. The couple subsequently got married and informed the court that they were now living happily.
Conviction Set Aside, Job Reinstatement Ordered
Taking note of the marriage and the present status of the relationship, the Supreme Court set aside the rape conviction and criminal proceedings against the accused.
The court also directed the Chief Medical Officer of Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh, to reinstate the accused in his previous government hospital job, where he was employed before his conviction.
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