Mangaluru: In the high-profile ‘Love–Sex–Deception’ case that emerged from Puttur in Dakshina Kannada district, the final deadline for mediation has been firmly set, with a clear warning that no further discussions will be entertained beyond January 31. If the proposed wedding does not take place by that date, a naming ceremony for the child will be held on February 7, and legal proceedings will continue without interruption, said Pratibha Kulai, member of the Karnataka Backward Classes Commission.
Addressing a press conference at the Mangaluru Press Club on Wednesday, Pratibha Kulai made it clear that repeated delays and assurances from the accused party would no longer be accepted. She stated that the matter had already dragged on for several months, causing emotional distress to the woman and her family, and that any further attempts to mislead them would be resisted firmly.
Naming ceremony rescheduled after request
Pratibha Kulai explained that earlier, January 24 had been fixed as the date for the child’s naming ceremony, which was scheduled to be held in Kalladka. Preparations had begun accordingly, and the family was ready to go ahead with the ceremony. However, developments took a turn after the child’s grandmother, Namita, received a phone call from Madhu Acharya, an office-bearer of the Udupi Acharya community.
According to Kulai, Madhu Acharya informed Namita that Krishna J. Rao’s family had agreed in principle to the marriage but sought additional time. They reportedly requested that the cradle or naming ceremony not be conducted immediately, citing the need for further internal discussions. Based on this assurance, the family agreed to postpone the ceremony, and it was rescheduled.
However, Kulai alleged that such assurances had been given earlier as well, only to be withdrawn later. “For six months, we were misled with promises and conditions. We will not allow such deception again,” she said.
No participation from complainant’s side in mediation
Clarifying the stance of the complainant’s side, Pratibha Kulai said that only Namita and her daughter would attend the mediation, if at all. She categorically stated that neither she nor representatives supporting the woman would participate in further discussions. “There is a genuine concern about safety. Anything could happen if we go. Hence, we will stay away,” she said.
She added that any mediation, if conducted, should take place either at the Puttur Police Station or in the presence of the Superintendent of Police of Mangaluru district. This, she said, was essential to ensure transparency and prevent intimidation or coercion.
Allegations of attempts to avoid legal consequences
Referring to statements made by the Puttur MLA, Kulai said that there were indications that Krishna J. Rao’s family was unlikely to agree to the marriage. The case is already before the court, and there are strong apprehensions that the accused side is attempting to stage “drama” to escape legal accountability.
Kulai alleged that earlier, several unacceptable conditions were put forth, including sending the child to an ashram, withdrawing the police complaint, or agreeing to a divorce immediately after marriage. “These demands are inhuman and illegal. They show a clear intention to avoid responsibility,” she said.
She stressed that the matter should be resolved strictly within the framework of law, without emotional manipulation or social pressure on the victim and her family.
Call for a lawful marriage or legal closure
Emphasising the need for a lawful conclusion, Pratibha Kulai said that if the marriage is to happen, it must be conducted legally, whether through a registered ceremony, online marriage, or any other method permitted under Indian law. “The wedding should not be symbolic or conditional. It must be legal and valid, ensuring accountability on both sides,” she said.
At the same time, she clarified that marriage should not be projected as the only outcome. “If the marriage does not take place, then divorce and related proceedings should move forward as per the law. There should be no confusion or prolonged uncertainty,” she added.
Kulai also revealed that a condition had earlier been imposed that Namita should not attend any meetings or public gatherings related to the case, which is why the grandmother did not participate in certain discussions.
Final deadline and clear warning
Concluding her address, Pratibha Kulai issued a clear warning that January 31 would be the final deadline for mediation. “If the marriage does not happen by then, there will be no further talks. The child’s naming ceremony will be held on February 7 without fail, and the legal process will continue,” she said.
She reiterated that the dignity of the woman and the future of the child were paramount and that prolonged mediation without results only served to delay justice. “This case must reach a logical and lawful conclusion. We will not allow endless negotiations at the cost of the victim’s rights,” Kulai asserted.