In a significant legal commentary, the Delhi High Court stated that individuals who engage in physical relations under the promise of marriage and later refuse to marry by citing reasons such as horoscope mismatches can be prosecuted under Section 69 of the Indian Penal Code. This section classifies sexual relations based on deceit as a criminal offense, which emphasizes the seriousness of consent and contract in romantic relationships. Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma's bench made these remarks while considering a bail application of an accused charged with coercion to marry a woman after they developed a physical relationship.

The court sternly rejected the accused's argument that the relationship was consensual, highlighting that the accused had repeatedly assured the victim that no obstacles would arise to their marriage, including concerns related to horoscope compatibilities. Furthermore, the court noted the timeline where the victim originally lodged her complaint in November 2025 but retracted it after being promised marriage by the accused and his family. This reiteration of commitment reinforces the notion that trust and assurance in such relationships are foundational and legal implications follow if they are manipulated.

This ruling could have wide-ranging implications for similar cases in India, setting a precedent that emphasizes accountability and validation in intimate relationships. It draws attention to the plight of individuals who may be misled under the guise of romantic engagements and highlights the judiciary's role in safeguarding their rights and interests.