Man booked for rape on marriage pretext

Bhopal: The Misrod police on Sunday registered a rape case against a building material supplier for allegedly sexually exploiting a 40-year-old divorced woman for over three years under the pretext of marriage.According to the police, the complainant runs a garment business from her home. She met the accused at a wedding function. Finding that they belonged to the same community, the duo became friends and stayed in touch over the phone.During their conversations, the accused learnt that the woman was divorced and allegedly proposed marriage. After she agreed, he reportedly visited her house and performed an informal engagement ceremony.The woman alleged that, on the assurance of marriage, the accused established physical relations with her and continued to sexually exploit her from February 2022 onwards.When she recently asked him to solemnize the wedding, he backed out, prompting her to approach the police. A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway.