Delhi High Court Quashes POCSO Case as Accused and Victim Are Now Married
The Delhi High Court has quashed criminal proceedings against a man who was accused of eloping and marrying a minor girl. The court ruled that since the couple is now married and living happily with two children, continuing the case would harm their family’s future.
Victim Left Home Willingly
During the investigation, the victim, aged between 16-17 at the time, stated that she left her parents’ house on her own because they opposed her relationship and even threatened to kill her. She also admitted that she had a consensual physical relationship with the accused before marrying him. However, no official records, witnesses, or photographs were available to confirm their marriage.
FIR Filed by Victim’s Father
The victim’s father filed an FIR under Sections 363 and 376 of the IPC and Section 6 of the POCSO Act, accusing the petitioner of luring his daughter and taking her away.
Court’s Observations and Ruling
Justice Rajnish Bhatnagar emphasized that the couple is now living together with their two minor children and wants to rebuild their lives. The court acknowledged that if the FIR were not quashed, the accused would face at least 10 years in prison, which would severely impact the family.
“This Court cannot turn its back on a distressed family. The victim has married the petitioner and they are living happily. It is also in society’s interest to support the family’s stability,” the judge stated.
The court further added that convicting the petitioner would only bring pain and suffering to both families, while quashing the FIR would ensure justice and happiness for them.
Final Verdict
Considering the family’s well-being, the Delhi High Court quashed the POCSO case, allowing them to continue their lives without legal hurdles.
Be a part our social media community:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndianMan.in?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/indianman.in?igsh=MWZ2N3N0ZmpwM3l3cw==
