– Bombay HC Grants Interim Relief to DY Patil’s Grandson in Rape Case
– Prithviraj Patil Gets Protection from Arrest, Must Appear for Questioning
– Court Orders Survivor’s Inclusion in Patil’s Bail Plea Hearing
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
Prithviraj Patil, grandson of former Bihar and West Bengal Governor DY Patil and nephew of former Maharashtra minister Satej Patil, has been granted interim protection from arrest by the Bombay High Court in a rape case. This decision follows the rejection of his anticipatory bail plea by the Thane Sessions Court earlier this month.
Case Background
A 29-year-old student filed a complaint in Thane, alleging that Patil sexually assaulted her multiple times under the pretense of marriage. According to the complaint, their acquaintance began in January 2023 at a mall, leading to a relationship during which the alleged assaults occurred.
• Court Proceedings
During the hearing, Additional Public Prosecutor Ajay S Patil, representing the police, emphasized the necessity of including the survivor as a party respondent in Patil’s anticipatory bail application. Senior advocate Ashok Mundargi, representing Patil, concurred with this inclusion. Justice Rajesh Patil approved the amendment, stipulating that failure to implement it promptly would result in the dismissal of the anticipatory bail application. The court directed that the survivor be notified through the investigating agency.
• Conditions Imposed
The High Court has mandated that Prithviraj Patil appear before the investigating officer for questioning on April 16 and 17. Additionally, the court scheduled the next hearing for April 21.
• Defense’s Position
Patil’s defense team has refuted the allegations, asserting that he has never visited Thane, is already married, and possesses no prior criminal record. They further claim that the complainant has previously extorted significant sums of money from him.
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• Legal Context
In India, cases involving allegations of sexual assault under false promises of marriage are complex and hinge on the specifics of each case. The judiciary examines factors such as consent, intent, and the nature of the relationship. The granting of interim relief in Patil’s case does not equate to a judgment on his guilt or innocence but allows for due process while imposing conditions to ensure cooperation with the investigation.
The Bombay High Court’s decision to grant interim protection to Prithviraj Patil underscores the importance of procedural fairness in sensitive cases. As the legal process unfolds, both parties will have the opportunity to present their evidence and arguments, ensuring that justice is served in accordance with the law.