Mumbai Man Cites 'Live-In Relationship Agreement' to Get Bail in Rape Case

New Delhi: A 46-year-old man seeking pre-arrest bail in Mumbai has submitted a "live-in relationship agreement" as part of his defense against a rape charge filed by his 29-year-old partner. The man claims that the agreement, which reportedly outlines terms including non-litigation of sexual harassment claims, justifies his actions.

According to the police, the man, a government employee, produced the document in court to argue that both parties had mutually agreed to the terms of their relationship. The agreement specifies that they would cohabit from August 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, without filing any cases of sexual harassment against each other. It also details various clauses regarding their living arrangements and responsibilities, including provisions on potential pregnancy and conduct during their cohabitation.

However, the woman, who works as a caregiver for the elderly, has contested the validity of the document. She claims that the signature on the agreement is not hers and has alleged that the man raped her multiple times during their relationship, despite his promises to marry her.

Sunil Pandey, the lawyer representing the accused, labeled the case as a "fraud," asserting that the man is a victim of false accusations and that the agreement demonstrates their consensual relationship.

The police are currently investigating the authenticity of the so-called agreement and examining its implications on the ongoing legal proceedings.