The Law suits: Love and Law – Supreme Court Intervenes in Rape Conviction Following Marriage Agreement
In a rather unusual turn of events, the Supreme Court of India has granted interim bail to a man previously convicted of rape based on a false promise of marriage. This decision came after the convicted individual and the complainant informed the apex court of their mutual willingness to marry each other.
The case, titled Sandeep Singh Thakur Versus The State of Madhya Pradesh & Anr., reached the Supreme Court as a Petition for Special Leave to Appeal against a High Court order. Recognizing the delicate nature of the matter, a bench comprising Hon’ble Mrs. Justice B.V. Nagarathna and Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satish Chandra Sharma took an unconventional approach.
Instead of immediately delving into the legal merits of the appeal, the Supreme Court directed the parties, along with their parents and respective counsel, to appear before them in chambers. This closed-door interaction facilitated a direct dialogue between the individuals involved.
The outcome of this interaction was significant. In the post-lunch session held on May 15, 2025, both the convicted petitioner and the complainant (respondent No. 2) unequivocally stated their willingness to enter into matrimony. The Supreme Court took this statement on record, expressing hope that the families would work out the details of the marriage expeditiously.
Considering this development, the Supreme Court proceeded to suspend the sentence of the convicted individual and granted him interim bail. The court further directed the petitioner to appear before them on May 16, 2025, and subsequently be produced before the concerned Sessions Court. The Sessions Court has been instructed to release him on bail, subject to any conditions it deems appropriate.
The Supreme Court has adjourned the matter to July 25, 2025, and has listed it as a part-heard case, indicating that the legal proceedings are still ongoing.
This case highlights the complex interplay between legal proceedings and personal relationships. While the conviction stood, the expressed desire of both parties to marry has led the Supreme Court to adopt a humanitarian approach, at least for the interim. The final outcome of the case will undoubtedly be closely watched, particularly regarding the implications of a subsequent marriage on a prior conviction for rape based on a false promise of marriage.
Published in the public interest by Adv Sulaiman Bhimani,
Citizens Justice Forum
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