Delhi High Court Denies Bail: Friendship No Defense in Rape Case

The Delhi High Court has denied the anticipatory bail plea of a man accused of raping a 17-year-old girl, stating that a friendship does not grant a license for such acts. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma emphasized that even if friendship existed, it cannot justify repeated rape, confinement, and abuse of the victim.

The accused had not complied with investigative procedures, despite his bail requests being previously withdrawn or denied. His argument of a consensual relationship was dismissed by the court, citing medical records which corroborate the victim's allegations.

The FIR, filed after an 11-day delay due to the victim's trauma and fear, alleges that the accused assaulted her at a friend's house and threatened her. Justice Sharma noted the serious nature of the allegations and ruled out anticipatory bail, stressing that fear delayed the complaint process.