Maharashtra Court Acquits Man in Controversial Underage Rape Case

A special court in Thane district, Maharashtra, has acquitted 28-year-old Samsher Rais Khan of rape charges concerning a minor. The court noted the prosecution's failure to prove that the victim was underage at the time of the alleged offense.

The prosecution claimed Khan raped the minor, promising marriage, but significant gaps were found in evidence regarding her age. An ossification test suggested she might have been between 16 and 17, casting doubt on her minority status.

The court highlighted inconsistencies in the victim's and her mother's statements. The victim admitted to being in love with Khan and meeting him willingly, leading the court to conclude the relationship was consensual.

(With inputs from agencies.)