Man Gets Bail in Rape Case: Court Reviews Controversial Live-In Agreement

A 46-year-old Mumbai man has been granted pre-arrest bail in a rape case filed by his 29-year-old partner, citing a "live-in relationship agreement" that includes a clause preventing either party from filing sexual harassment claims. The case, now under legal scrutiny, has raised questions about the authenticity of the agreement and the nature of the relationship.

Allegations and Defense

The woman, an elderly caregiver, alleges that the man, a government employee, repeatedly raped her during their live-in relationship after promising to marry her. In her court filing, she asserts that the signature on the so-called live-in agreement is not hers, casting doubt on its validity. The accused, through his lawyer Sunil Pandey, has maintained that the relationship was consensual and that the agreement proves mutual understanding between the two parties.

"The applicant has been falsely implicated. They were in a live-in relationship, and the agreement reflects their consent. This case is a clear attempt to frame my client," Pandey argued in court.

Despite these claims, the police are investigating the validity of the document, which could play a crucial role in the ongoing legal proceedings.

The Agreement's Provisions

The seven-point agreement, reportedly signed by both parties, outlines the terms of their cohabitation from August 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Key provisions include:

No Sexual Harassment Claims: Neither party is allowed to file any sexual harassment complaints during the duration of the agreement.

Living Arrangements: The woman was to reside with the man at his home, with the option to leave after giving one month’s notice if she found his behavior inappropriate.

Restrictions on Relatives: The agreement forbids the woman’s relatives from visiting her while she stays with the man.

Harassment and Mental Agony: The woman is prohibited from causing any harassment or mental distress to the man. Additionally, the agreement absolves the man of any responsibility if the woman becomes pregnant.

Responsibility for Mental Trauma: If the man suffers severe mental trauma as a result of harassment, the woman would be held accountable for the damage caused to his life.

Legal Implications and Future Proceedings

The woman contests the authenticity of her signature on the agreement, a crucial point that the police are currently verifying. The case, which hinges on the validity of this document, has sparked a debate about the use of such agreements in live-in relationships and the potential for their misuse in legal matters.

The court’s decision to grant bail to the accused underscores the complexities surrounding consent, live-in relationships, and allegations of rape. As the investigation continues, the authenticity of the agreement will likely determine the outcome of this controversial case.