On December 16, the Karnataka High Court, led by Justice M Nagaprasanna, stayed proceedings against a man accused of rape, citing the “dangers of dating applications.” The case involved a 22-year-old man accused by a woman he met on the dating app Bumble. The duo spent the night together at a hotel, but the woman later filed a rape complaint.
The court noted that the complaint did not allege forced sexual acts but rather that consent was allegedly obtained under duress. The bench also pointed out discrepancies in the police chargesheet, including a failure to consider online chats between the parties.
Justice Nagaprasanna highlighted the risks associated with online dating and emphasized the need for proper investigation. The complainant’s lawyer informed the court that the woman wished to withdraw the case, which influenced the decision to dismiss charges under Sections 376 (rape), 420 (cheating), and 506 (criminal intimidation).
The next hearing is scheduled for December 23, with the court issuing notices to the Karnataka police and state government to respond to allegations of poor investigation.
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