On February 10, 2025, the Delhi High Court granted bail to a man facing charges of rape, assault, criminal intimidation, outraging a woman's modesty, and unnatural sexual intercourse, as alleged by his female colleague. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna noted that workplace relationships sometimes turn bitter, resulting in legal disputes. She emphasised the importance of distinguishing between consensual relationships and cases of sexual assault. Below, we delve into the details of the case.
Delhi High Court Says Sexual Relationships At Workplace Often Lead To Criminal Cases
The Delhi High Court has noted that workplace proximity often leads to consensual sexual relationships, which, when turned sour, sometimes result in criminal allegations like rape. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna emphasised the importance of distinguishing between consensual sex and sexual assault in such cases.
The court highlighted the need for both legislative and executive bodies to ensure women's safety in the workplace while also stressing the judiciary's role in interpreting laws pragmatically. Justice Krishna further stated that courts must act as watchdogs to prevent the misuse of legal provisions while ensuring genuine cases receive the necessary protection, as per Live Law.
The court noted that the complainant and the bail applicant were involved in a consensual romantic and physical relationship, with plans to marry.
Details About The Case
The order highlighted that, on multiple occasions, the complainant willingly suggested staying at OYO hotels, despite the applicant’s reluctance. During these stays, she voluntarily provided her identity card and did not raise any objections or report any misconduct to the authorities. This, the court observed, indicated that their physical relationship was based on mutual consent, free will, and affection.
The Court acknowledged that as women increasingly become a significant part of the workforce, it is the duty of both the Legislature and the Executive to establish and enforce laws that ensure their safety and well-being. It further emphasised that the judiciary also has a crucial role in interpreting and applying these laws in a practical manner, ensuring that legal protections are effectively implemented rather than remaining merely theoretical.
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The applicant claimed that upon discovering the complainant was involved with someone else, he attempted to resolve the matter, but she cut all ties with him. He argued that she later filed the criminal case against him out of revenge.
The Court noted that charges had already been framed and that the applicant had been in custody since May 2024. Granting him bail, the Court stated that the truth of the allegations would be determined during trial, which could take time. It further observed that since the applicant had been in judicial custody since May 30, 2024, keeping him imprisoned for an extended period would serve no meaningful purpose.
As per Bar And Bench, the defence also argued that there was no evidence indicating coercion, force, or assault by the accused.
While granting him bail, the Court observed that charges had been framed in November of the previous year. It emphasised that the truthfulness of the allegations would be examined during the trial, which was expected to take a considerable amount of time.
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