SC Questions Rising Rape Cases Linked to Broken Marriage Promises

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court on Wednesday raised concerns over the growing number of rape cases being filed when relationships end especially where promises of marriage were made but not fulfilled. The court warned that relationships breaking up should not automatically lead to rape charges.

Justice MM Sundaresh and Justice Rajesh Bindal, hearing a petition for the dismissal of a rape case, stressed that the changing dynamics in society should not make a breakup a criminal act. The case involved a woman who accused her fiancé of rape after he allegedly had a physical relationship with her under the false promise of marriage. The man's defense argued that the case had no merit.

The court questioned whether a breakup in a relationship should be criminalized just because the promise of marriage wasn't kept. The judges emphasized that romantic relationships particularly among younger generations, don’t always lead to marriage and ending them shouldn’t automatically be considered a crime.

Justice Bindal pointed out that the complainant knew the relationship could end and that both sides must be treated equally under the law. The bench also stressed that while the situation was serious they couldn’t treat every failed romance as a rape case.

This case highlights the complexities of modern relationships and the challenges the legal system faces when dealing with issues of consent, promises, and personal choice. The court will continue hearings in the case on a later date.