- Acquits man of false rape charges based on DNA evidence
Bhopal: In a landmark ruling, a special court in Bhopal has acquitted 34-year-old Rahul Singh Rajput of false rape and criminal intimidation charges. The verdict, delivered by Special Judge Neelu Sanjeev Shrangi Rishi, was based on scientific evidence, DNA reports, and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s statements.
Background: A web of lies and betrayal
The case revolved around a woman, referred to as ‘Savita’ for anonymity, who had been married to a government servant since 2006 and had three children. Amid ongoing marital disputes, Savita filed for divorce in 2020. During this time, she met Rahul Singh Rajput, a private entrepreneur involved in various businesses. Rahul helped Savita financially by lending her Rs 40,000 for her business, leading to a closer relationship. Savita later claimed that Rahul had promised to marry her, and they had a sexual relationship.
False allegations of rape
Savita alleged that on August 11, 2020, Rahul took her to a hotel, drugged her drink, and raped her. She further accused him of coercing her into repeated sexual encounters, eventually reneging on his marriage promise. However, when questioned in court, Savita failed to provide specific details about the hotel, room, or floor where the alleged incident occurred, and the prosecution could not present any CCTV footage or eyewitness testimony to corroborate her story.
Crucial DNA and medical evidence
The turning point in the case came with the forensic analysis of DNA found on an undergarment provided by the woman. The DNA did not match Rahul’s, conclusively refuting her claims. Additionally, medical reports showed no signs of forced intercourse or injuries, contradicting Savita’s allegations of physical harm.
WhatsApp messages and mental pressure
Rahul’s defense presented WhatsApp chats where Savita repeatedly pressured him to go out with her, and she also admitted in court to pressuring him for marriage even before her divorce was finalized. Rahul testified that Savita had threatened to frame him in a rape case if he refused to marry her.
Court’s strong remarks
The court emphasized that Savita was still legally married at the time of the alleged incident, and her claim of rape based on a marriage promise was legally invalid. The DNA and medical evidence completely disproved her allegations, pointing to a case of personal dissatisfaction and possibly blackmail.
In a decisive ruling, Rahul Singh Rajput was acquitted of all charges, setting a precedent for cases involving false rape accusations.
