In Brief
A woman accused her boyfriend of sexual abuse under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code, alleging he promised marriage then broke his word after six years of cohabitation. The High Court rejected his plea to quash the case. The Supreme Court adjourned the matter for further hearing to consider whether, even if no criminal offence is proved, long cohabitation following a marriage promise could impose civil liability treating the relationship as a de facto marriage, ensuring women are not left without remedy.
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