Delhi HC Orders Framing Of Rape Charges Against Man Who Gave ‘False Marriage Promise’ To Married Woman, Her Ex-Husband
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has ordered the framing of rape charges and criminal intimidation against a man who allegedly gave a false promise of marriage to a married woman. The accused had reportedly entered into a physical relationship with the woman, assuring her and her ex-husband that he would marry her and take care of their children. However, he later refused to fulfill his promise and ended the relationship.
Labeling it as a Twin promise of marriage, the court noted that the woman would not have engaged in a physical relationship with the accused if he had not made the false promise of marriage and the responsibility of their children after the divorce.
Initially, the man was discharged by the trial court, citing breach of promise of marriage instead of false promise of marriage. Disagreeing with this decision, Justice Sharma stated that both parties had not only promised verbally to divorce their partners and marry each other but had also acted on that promise by being together. The accused had even bought a Mangalsutra (a sacred necklace symbolizing marriage) with the intention of marrying the woman.
The court emphasized that the accused had made a commitment to marry the woman and had stayed with her based on that promise, leading to her divorce from her husband. These circumstances prompted the court to apply the rigors of Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) – pertaining to rape – to the case.
In 2011, the man and woman married different people after their relationship did not result in marriage. Both encountered unhappiness in their respective marriages. In 2016, the woman and her husband decided to separate, at which point she reconnected with the accused on Facebook.
The woman claimed that the man promised to marry her and was committed to it. They both agreed that once she divorced her husband, they would marry, and he would take care of her children.
This ruling by the Delhi High Court highlights the importance of respecting promises made in relationships and stresses the consequences of failing to do so. The case serves as a reminder that false promises of marriage can lead to grave legal ramifications, especially in cases concerning consent and sexual relationships.
With the framing of rape charges and criminal intimidation against the accused, this ruling paves the way for a comprehensive and thorough examination of the allegations. The court’s decision affirms its commitment to upholding justice and protecting the rights of victims.
As the trial resumes, it is hoped that this case will set a precedent for ensuring accountability and deterring such deceptive practices. The handling of this matter will undoubtedly contribute to shaping future judgments regarding similar offenses, providing guidance for both the legal system and society as a whole.
