SKHEM SYRTI Vs. STATE OF MEGHALAYA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard Mr. J. Shylla, learned counsel for the appellant, who has submitted that this appeal is posted for hearing, and the hearing of the same has not yet commenced. Therefore, it is very likely that the appeal may take some time to be disposed of.

(2.) In the meantime, the appellant is also praying for suspension of the sentence. On this issue, the learned counsel has submitted that, facts and circumstances as could be seen from the records available, would show that the relationship between the appellant and the survivor is that of a love relationship, and therefore, no question of assault or force has arisen, even in the act of sexual intercourse, since as has been submitted, the relationship is consensual in nature.

(3.) It is also the submission of the learned counsel that the survivor had maintained that, at the time when the incident took place, she was 18 years or so, and also the fact that she is in love with the appellant, is reflected in her deposition in court as PW. 2, where she expressed her regret for what has happened to the appellant, that is, the fact that he was arrested in connection with the case.