Online relationship over whatsapp under mutual consent

883 votes

From the facts stated, no criminal offence is made out. A consensual online interaction between two consenting adults, without any physical relationship, sexual contact, or financial inducement, does not constitute the offence of cheating under Section 420 IPC or any other criminal provision. For cheating, it is mandatory to prove dishonest intention from the inception, which is completely absent in this case. You had clearly disclosed your marital status, and the other party entered into the relationship with full knowledge and consent. Mere emotional expectations or future discussions do not create any legally enforceable right, nor can withdrawal from a consensual relationship be criminalised. Indian courts have consistently held that a failed relationship or change of intention does not amount to cheating or criminal breach of trust. Any threat of legal action without legal foundation, including attempts to coerce or pressurise you, may itself amount to criminal intimidation and harassment. Therefore, such threats have no legal merit and cannot be sustained in law. Nevertheless, as a matter of abundant caution, you should preserve all digital communications, messages, and call records. If any false or malicious complaint is initiated, the same can be effectively contested and quashed at the appropriate legal stage. Proper legal strategy at this stage is crucial to safeguard your rights and reputation.

Advocate Atanu Patra LawRato

573 votes

Yes, she can go to police station and can take legal action in the pretext of rape on false promise of marriage. So what you instead do is Register a General Diary and preserve it as evidence in your jurisdictional police station. File a civil suit for injunction restraining your wife to give threat to initiate false legal action

Advocate Shubham Agarwal LawRato

880 votes

A consensual online relationship between two adults is not a criminal offence. The woman was aware of the man’s marital status from the beginning and there was no physical relationship, false promise of marriage, financial inducement or deception. Ending such a relationship does not amount to cheating under IPC. Mere threat of legal action is not sustainable in law. However, all communication records should be preserved.

Advocate Sudhankar Ghosh LawRato

751 votes

Hlw, I am Advocate Hritam Banerjee. I saw your question and I can tell you that you don't need to worry about these threats. I recommend you to hire an Advocate and he can tell you all the consequences you are going to face and all the remedies for the problems.

Advocate Hritam Banerjee LawRato