Karnataka High Court Quashes FIR in Alleged Rape Case Stemming from Social Media Encounter

Court Emphasizes Distinction Between Consensual Intimacy and Allegations of Rape, Citing Lack of Coercion or Deceit

In a significant ruling, the Karnataka High Court quashed the FIR and subsequent proceedings against Mr. Sampras Anthony, who faced allegations of rape under Section 64 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The case, originating from a social media encounter, was dismissed on grounds that evidence pointed to consensual intimacy rather than coercion or deceit.

The judgment, delivered by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, examined the intricacies of modern social interactions, particularly those initiated through dating apps. The petitioner, Mr. Sampras Anthony, and the complainant met on the dating app Bumble and later maintained contact through Instagram. Their relationship culminated in a physical encounter at an OYO hotel, following which the complainant alleged that her consent was withdrawn during intimacy.

The court noted that the complaint lodged on August 13, 2024, claimed a withdrawal of consent during the act. However, upon reviewing the evidence, including the exchanges on social media, the court found no indication of coercion or deceit. The court referenced previous Supreme Court judgments that draw a clear line between consensual relationships and criminal acts of rape.

Justice Nagaprasanna highlighted the necessity of clear evidence of coercion or deceit to substantiate allegations of rape when the relationship is initially consensual. He emphasized that continuing with the trial would result in a miscarriage of justice and an abuse of legal processes.

The court's decision reflects a growing recognition of the complexities involved in relationships initiated through digital platforms and underscores the importance of distinguishing between consensual interactions and criminal conduct.

Bottom Line:

The court distinguished between consensual sexual intimacy and allegations of rape, emphasizing that mutual volition in a relationship, even if it ends in disappointment, cannot be transmuted into an offense under criminal law unless there is clear evidence of coercion or deceit.

Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Section 64

Mr. Sampras Anthony v. State of Karnataka, (Karnataka) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2798635