Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to an accused in a case involving allegations of sexual assault and caste-based harassment, while making significant observations about live-in relationships and changing social values.
Allahabad High Court on Live-In Relationships and Changing Social Norms
Justice Nalin Kumar Srivastava made notable remarks about the evolving nature of relationships among young people while hearing a criminal appeal against a bail rejection order.
The case involved an appeal filed by Akash Keshari, challenging the rejection of his bail application by the Special Judge (SC/ST Act), Varanasi. The case pertained to charges under various sections of the IPC and SC/ST Act, including Sections 376, 377, 313, and others.
Court Grants Bail in Live-In Case, Calls for Moral Framework
The court observed, “This Court takes notice of the fact that we are now living in a changing society. The moral values and normal conduct of the younger generation within families, society, and workplaces are changing swiftly.”
Addressing the specific issue of live-in relationships, the court noted, “As far as live-in relationships are concerned, they have no social sanction. However, since young people are increasingly drawn to such relationships—where a male or female partner can easily escape liabilities—their prevalence is rapidly rising.”
The court emphasized the need for societal intervention, stating, “It is high time we all reflect on this issue and work toward a framework or solution to preserve moral values in society.”
In granting bail to the appellant, the court considered various factors, including the fact that the prosecutrix was a major and the relationship was consensual. The court set aside the lower court’s order rejecting bail and imposed several conditions on the accused.
The bail conditions require that the appellant must not tamper with evidence, intimidate witnesses, or commit similar offenses. The court also mandated regular appearances during the trial unless exempted.
Mr. Ankit Kapoor appeared for the appellant, while the State was represented by the Government Advocate and Mr. Mohak Agarwal.
Case Title: Akash Keshari v. State of U.P. and Another
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