The Delhi High Court has granted a brief extension of time to a lawyer accused of raping a woman advocate to surrender before the trial court. Justice Amit Mahajan allowed the accused to surrender by November 17, directing that he must not contact the complainant during this period. The order came after the accused sought additional time, citing the filing of a Special Leave Petition before the Supreme Court challenging the cancellation of his anticipatory bail.
The case stems from an FIR filed on June 25, 2025, in which a 27-year-old advocate accused a 51-year-old lawyer of repeatedly having sexual relations with her over a span of five years under the pretext of emotional manipulation and promises. The complainant further alleged that she became pregnant in May 2025 and that after she lodged the complaint, two judicial officers attempted to influence her to withdraw it.
Earlier, the Delhi High Court had cancelled the anticipatory bail granted to the accused, noting that the case reflected serious interference in the judicial process and that the allegations indicated a gross abuse of legal privilege. The court observed that the involvement of judicial officers in influencing the complainant amounted to a “mockery of justice.” Following the bail cancellation, the accused sought time to surrender, leading to the present order.
During the recent hearing, the High Court recorded the submissions of the accused’s counsel, who sought a one-week extension to surrender. The Court, while granting the request, made it clear that the extension was being provided only to enable the accused to approach the Supreme Court, and it did not reflect any relaxation of the earlier bail cancellation order. The Court also reiterated that during this period, the accused must not communicate or attempt to contact the victim in any form.
Additionally, the Delhi High Court directed an administrative inquiry into the alleged role of the two judicial officers who were said to have approached the complainant. The bench expressed deep concern over the alleged involvement of judicial officers, emphasizing that such conduct undermines the integrity of the judiciary and erodes public trust.
This order underscores the judiciary’s approach in maintaining balance between granting procedural fairness and ensuring that the integrity of the criminal process is not compromised. The Court’s decision to extend the surrender period demonstrates its adherence to due process while safeguarding the interests of justice and the dignity of the complainant.
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