Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa bench of the Bombay High Court has granted anticipatory bail to a government officer accused of engaging in a physical relationship with a woman on the alleged false assurance of marriage.
In an order delivered on Wednesday, Justice Neela Gokhale allowed the pre-arrest bail plea of Manthan Naik, who has been booked under Sections 69, 115(2), and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Section 69 deals with sexual relations obtained through deceit, including false promises of marriage, employment, or promotion.
The court noted that Naik had been granted interim protection in December 2025 and that there was no indication he had misused that relief. Observing the absence of any such violations, the bench decided to confirm the interim protection.
The prosecution had opposed the application, pointing to the gravity of the accusations.
As per the complaint filed on October 28, 2025, the woman alleged that she entered into a relationship with Naik based on his promise to marry her. The court order mentions that discussions regarding marriage had taken place between both families. However, the situation reportedly changed after the complainant discovered that the accused was in contact with another woman, following which he allegedly backed out of the marriage, leading to the complaint.
Taking into account that the chargesheet has already been filed, the court observed that custodial interrogation was not required at this stage. The bench held that there was no obstacle in confirming the earlier order and granted anticipatory bail.
The court directed that in case of arrest, Naik be released on a personal bond of ₹50,000 along with one surety. It also imposed conditions restraining him from influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence, contacting the complainant, or leaving the country without prior court approval. Additionally, he has been barred from entering Taleigao village until the complainant’s statement is recorded before the trial court.
The court clarified that its observations are preliminary and limited to the adjudication of the bail plea.
