Mumbai: Man Secures Bail in Rape Case with 'Live-In Relationship Agreement'—Here’s the Shocking Twist

A 46-year-old man accused of rape in Mumbai secured pre-arrest bail by presenting a “live-in relationship agreement” to the court, claiming it included a clause preventing either party from filing sexual harassment charges against the other. The Mumbai court granted him bail on August 29, but the case took a twist when the 29-year-old woman who filed the complaint claimed the signature on the agreement was not hers.

 

Key Allegations

The woman told the court that her partner had promised to marry her and sexually assaulted her multiple times during their relationship. The accused, however, presented the agreement as evidence that their relationship was consensual and that both parties had agreed not to file any complaints against each other.

Defense’s Argument

The accused’s lawyer, Sunil Pandey, argued that his client was a victim of false accusations. “The applicant is falsely accused and is a victim of circumstances,” Pandey said. He also claimed that the agreement demonstrated a mutual understanding between the two parties, with the woman’s signature confirming her consent.

The "Live-In Relationship Agreement"

The agreement, presented by the accused, included several key points:

1. The couple agreed to live together from August 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
2. Neither party would file a sexual harassment complaint against the other during this time.
3. The woman would live at the man’s residence but could leave with one month’s notice if she found his behavior unacceptable.
4. The woman’s relatives were not allowed to visit while she was living with him.
5. The woman was prohibited from causing any harassment or distress to the man.
6. If the woman became pregnant during the period, the man would not be held responsible.
7. If the woman’s actions caused significant mental trauma to the man, she would be held accountable.

Police Investigation

The police are now investigating the authenticity of the agreement, with particular focus on the woman’s claim that the signature on the document was forged. Authorities are examining the evidence to determine whether the document is legitimate or if the case involves further fraudulent activity.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

The court’s decision to grant bail has drawn attention, as the case raises questions about the legal standing of agreements made in live-in relationships. The case also underscores the importance of verifying such agreements in court, especially when one party disputes their validity.

As the investigation continues, the court will decide whether the accused should face further legal consequences based on the findings regarding the disputed agreement and the rape allegations.