No trial without strong suspicion: Delhi HC upholds discharge in rape case

Holding that a criminal trial cannot continue without strong suspicion, the Delhi High Court has dismissed the State's challenge to a trial court order discharging three accused in a rape case, while also issuing directions to curb misuse of sexual offence complaints and victim compensation.

- TDG NETWORK

In a detailed judgment, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma upheld the sessions court's decision discharging the accused of offences under Sections 328 and 376 of the IPC.

The Court noted that although the complainant initially alleged sexual assault, she later gave a voluntary statement under Section 164 of the CrPC before a magistrate, clearly stating that the relationship was consensual and that no offence had been committed.