Kochi: The Kerala High Court has granted anticipatory bail to rapper Vedan (Hiran Das Murali) in a case where a young woman accused him of sexually exploiting her under the pretext of marriage. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas observed, prima facie, that the relationship between the two was consensual.

Key Details:

Must Cooperate with Investigation: Vedan has been directed to appear before the Thrikkakara police for questioning on September 9 and 10.

Bail Conditions: If arrested, he must be released on a personal bond of ₹1 lakh along with two sureties.

Travel Restriction: He is not permitted to leave India without prior court approval.

Case Background:

The woman alleged that the incidents occurred between 2021 and 2023. They first became acquainted through social media and later entered into multiple instances of physical intimacy. After the relationship broke down, the woman filed a complaint claiming sexual exploitation. However, the Court noted that their prolonged cohabitation, including evidence such as train tickets provided by her, indicated that the relationship was consensual.

Court’s Observations:

The Court highlighted that sexual relationships on the promise of marriage often present challenges in legal interpretation. Each case must be assessed on its unique facts and circumstances. The Court further remarked that portraying a broken consensual relationship as rape can unfairly damage a person’s future. It emphasized that in such cases, legal realities must take precedence over moral considerations.