Failed Relationships Alone Cannot Lead to Criminal Cases: Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has made it clear that criminal law should not be used to punish adults simply because a consensual relationship has failed. The Court observed that not every romantic relationship ends in marriage, and its breakdown alone cannot lead to criminal charges.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma said that educated and independent adults must understand the uncertainty that comes with relationships. If two adults willingly enter a relationship, the law cannot be invoked merely because it later ends. A breakup, by itself, does not create criminal liability.

The Court stressed that such cases must be handled with sensitivity and respect for personal choice. It noted that relationships can end for many reasons, such as incompatibility or changing priorities, and these personal outcomes should not be criminalised.

These observations were made while quashing a rape case and charges under the SC/ST Act against a Delhi-based academic. The FIR was filed after the end of a long-term relationship. After examining WhatsApp chats and other records, the Court found the relationship to be consensual and held that the criminal complaint was filed only after the relationship turned sour.

The Court also said that allegations based on a false promise of marriage were not supported by evidence and warned that such serious accusations can cause lasting harm to the reputation of the accused and their family.