#sexual exploitation

The Punjab & Haryana High Court ruled that anticipatory bail cannot be granted in cases involving serious allegations of sexual exploitation for financial gain under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, emphasizing that custodial interrogation is essential for a thorough investigation. The decision underscores that interim relief must yield to the imperatives of justice in heinous offenses, particularly where the accused's direct involvement is under scrutiny.

The Chhattisgarh High Court has ruled that a consensual physical relationship ending in a broken marriage promise does not automatically amount to sexual exploitation under BNS Section 69 unless there is evidence the accused never intended to marry from the outset. This sets a critical boundary between emotional betrayal and criminal fraud, protecting individuals from misuse of sexual offense statutes in private relationship disputes.

The Punjab & Haryana High Court ruled that forced sexual intercourse with a minor under coercion-even if motivated by extortion-remains rape under the POCSO Act. The court emphasized that the victim's lack of consent, not the perpetrator's motive, determines the offense, reinforcing child protection over bail considerations despite prolonged custody.

Chhattisgarh High Court holds that allegations of sexual exploitation by a public official, even if contested as consensual, require full trial; quashing not warranted at preliminary stage.