The Delhi High Court has denied anticipatory bail to a man accused of raping a 17-year-old girl, emphasizing that friendship does not justify repeated sexual assault, confinement, or violence. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma rejected the man’s argument that their friendship implied a consensual relationship, stating that friendship does not grant the right to harm or exploit another individual. The accused had not cooperated with the investigation, having had his bail plea withdrawn or rejected four times previously. The judge pointed out that the complainant’s statements, supported by medical evidence, indicated a clear case of abuse. The FIR, based on the girl’s complaint, revealed that she had known the accused as a neighbor for several years.
She reported that he took her to a friend’s house, where he assaulted her and threatened her life if she spoke out. The accused argued there was an 11-day delay in filing the FIR and claimed the relationship was consensual. However, Justice Sharma dismissed this argument, noting that the delay was likely due to the victim’s fear and trauma following the assaults. Given the serious allegations and supporting evidence, the court found no grounds for granting bail, leading to the dismissal of the application.