'Legal battle would destroy couple, kid's lives': HC bins FIR in rape case

THE Delhi High Court has quashed a First Information Report (FIR) against a 19-yearold man charged with rape and other serious offences, considering the consensual relationship he had with a 17-year-old girl.

- SHEKHAR SINGH

The couple had engaged in a physical relationship, resulting in the birth of a child.

Taking a compassionate stance, the court underscored that continuing the case would adversely impact the well-being of the child and the lives of all involved.

The case centred around the FIR, which was registered after the girl, still a minor at the time, became pregnant and was reported to the police by hospital authorities during her final stage of pregnancy.

The 19-year-old petitioner was subsequently arrested under sections of the Indian Penal Code, including kidnapping and rape, along with provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.