Allegations of rape on false pretext of marriage against multiple individuals raise doubts about the credibility of the complainant.
In a significant development, the Delhi High Court has ordered a stay on the proceedings of a rape case involving Rohit Sehrawat, accused of sexual misconduct under the guise of a false promise of marriage. The case, which was being heard by the Sessions Court, has been paused pending further orders, following a petition filed by the accused seeking a stay of the proceedings due to alleged malafides by the complainant.
Presided over by Justice Prateek Jalan, the High Court examined the complexities surrounding the case, particularly the complainant's history of filing multiple sexual misconduct complaints against different individuals during overlapping time frames. The petitioner, represented by Senior Advocate Ms. Nandita Rao, argued that the complainant's pattern of accusations significantly undermines the credibility of the allegations.
The court's decision was influenced by the argument that it is implausible for the complainant to have been misled by false marriage promises from multiple individuals concurrently. This assertion was supported by evidence showing that similar allegations against other individuals had resulted in either closure reports or settlements.
Ms. Rao highlighted a previous settlement with the petitioner in a similar complaint filed at Rewari, where the complainant agreed to cease any relationship or future complaints against him. Despite this, a new complaint was filed nearly two years later, raising questions about the complainant's intentions.
The court also considered precedents set by the Supreme Court in cases like "Mahesh Damu Khare v. State of Maharashtra" and "Prithvirajan v. The State Rep. by the Inspector of Police," which clarified the legal stance on allegations of rape under false promises of marriage. The judgments emphasized that not every romantic relationship that ends due to unforeseen circumstances qualifies as rape.
Citing these precedents, Justice Jalan noted that allegations involving multiple individuals during the same period cast doubt on the complainant's claims. Consequently, the High Court decided to stay the Sessions Court proceedings to prevent potential abuse of the legal process.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration on October 5, 2026, when the court will review the petition and decide on the future course of action.
Bottom line:-
Allegations of rape on the false pretext of marriage against two individuals during the same period raise doubts about the credibility of the complainant's claims.
Statutory provision(s): Indian Penal Code, 1860 Sections 376, 313, 506
Rohit Sehrawat v. State of NCT of Delhi, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc id # 2943814
