SC says no concession for faking identity to enter relationship

“To grant any indulgence (concession) to an indulgent man would be judicial perversity,” said the Supreme Court, while declining to allow a plea of a man seeking anticipatory bail.

The man was accused of rape and cheating for establishing a relationship with a woman on promise of marriage and concealing his identity.

A bench presided over by Justice Dipak Misra refused to grant any protection to Mumbai-resident Mandal Saifullah Shaikh, who apprehended arrest on a complaint lodged by the woman for the offence of rape and cheating.

“Why did you not tell the victim your real name? Why did you present yourself as “Santo” instead of “Saifullah” your original name,” the bench asked the petitioner’s counsel.

The counsel questioned the victim’s version, saying she knew his identity and went along with him. The counsel also claimed the relationship was consensual in nature and the petitioner should be enlarged on bail.

The bench, however, said the petitioner suppressed material facts about his personal life. Besides, the court noted that he did not disclose for about three years to the woman that he was married and had four children.

On this, the counsel submitted that the petitioner was ready to surrender, provided a direction was issued to the trial court to admit him on regular bail.