Supreme Court Quashes Rape Case Against Man, Says Promise of Marriage to Married Woman Not Legally Valid

The Supreme Court has quashed a rape case against a 25-year-old man accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a married woman under the pretext of a false promise of marriage.

The bench observed that the relationship was consensual and lasted over a year, with no evidence of force or threats. The woman, already married with a child, accused the man of rape under Section 376 IPC.

The Court also highlighted the misuse of criminal law in personal disputes, stating that such actions burden the judicial system and tarnish reputations. 

Finding the case an abuse of law, it set aside the Bombay High Court’s refusal to quash the FIR.