Quick Summary: The Delhi High Court agreed with the decision to find Miraj @ Imraj not guilty, who was accused of rape and other charges. The decision was based on doubts about the girl's age and the possibility that their relationship was consensual.
On August 19, 2014, the girl claimed that Miraj @ Imraj raped her at her home in New Delhi. She reported the incident five days later, on August 24, 2014. A police report was filed, and Miraj @ Imraj was arrested the same day. He was charged under laws related to rape and child protection.
Age of the Girl: The trial court questioned the girl's age, which was important for applying child protection laws. Her school records were considered unreliable, and her father admitted to giving false information about her age.
Delay in Reporting: The girl and her family took time to report the incident to the police. The court found their reasons for the delay inconsistent.
Behavior and Relationship: Evidence suggested there might have been a consensual relationship between the girl and Miraj @ Imraj. Photos and a love letter indicated closeness, and her statements were inconsistent.
Medical Evidence: The medical examination showed no signs of force, only a torn hymen, which could happen from different activities.
The High Court, led by Justices Prathiba M. Singh and Madhu Jain, reviewed the trial court's findings and agreed with the decision to find Miraj @ Imraj not guilty. They focused on the lack of clear evidence about the girl's age and the possibility of consent.
Doubt on Age: The court noted the lack of strong evidence to confirm the girl's age, which was a key part of the case.
Reasonable Doubt: The judgment emphasized the need for clear and convincing evidence in criminal cases, stating that suspicion alone cannot result in a conviction.
Consensual Relationship: The court acknowledged the possibility of a consensual relationship, given the evidence of closeness.
The court agreed with the trial court's decision to find Miraj @ Imraj not guilty due to reasonable doubt about the girl's age and the nature of their relationship. The appeal was dismissed, and Miraj @ Imraj was released. This case highlights the importance of reliable evidence and the presumption of innocence in criminal cases.
