False Promise of Marriage: What Section 69 BNS Says

False Promise of Marriage vs a Broken Relationship: Understanding Section 69 BNS

A broken relationship and a deliberately false marriage promise are not automatically the same. Here is the key distinction under Section 69 BNS.

Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita addresses sexual intercourse obtained through deceitful means or a marriage promise made without any intention of fulfilling it, where the act does not amount to rape.

What matters is the intention behind the promise. A relationship ending without marriage does not, by itself, establish every ingredient of this offence. The circumstances surrounding the promise and the sexual relationship require examination.

The provision carries imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine. This is the maximum imprisonment prescribed, not an automatic sentence in every case.

Section 69 is also distinct from the offence of rape. Reports should accurately identify the provision involved instead of treating both as interchangeable.

Know the distinction: An allegation requires investigation; it is not a finding of guilt.

Read more about Section 69 BNS.