By Emeka Blast 
Rape Allegation Unravels in Pune as Woman Confesses to Fabricating Delivery Man Story
A 22-year-old woman’s claim of a horrific assault by a delivery man in her flat has unraveled, revealing a fabricated story that has ignited public outrage and raised serious concerns about the misuse of rape allegations. The incident, which initially shocked the community, has led to a police investigation that now questions the nature of the encounter and its implications for genuine victims of sexual violence.
On July 3, the woman reported to Delhi police that a delivery man entered her flat, rendered her unconscious with a chemical spray, raped her, took a selfie on her phone, and sent a threatening message vowing to return. The graphic nature of the complaint sparked widespread anger, prompting swift action from authorities. Police arrested a suspect based on CCTV footage, which they claimed showed him as the only person entering her flat that day. However, the woman denied he was the assailant, leaving investigators puzzled.
Under questioning, the woman admitted to fabricating the story. The accused was not a delivery man but a highly qualified tech professional working for a multinational corporation and a long-time friend. She confessed to frequently inviting him to her flat when her family was away. According to her revised statement, she was not ready for sexual activity during his latest visit, but he allegedly forced himself on her. Angered, she filed a complaint against an “imaginary” delivery man, possibly to scare him without intending to send him to jail.
The accused, however, told police a different story. He claimed she invited him over, saying she felt “disturbed,” and they spent time together, during which they took a selfie. After he left, she allegedly cropped the photo, typed a threatening message on her phone, and contacted a relative, claiming assault. Police investigations found no evidence of forced entry, no chemical spray, and confirmed the selfie and message originated from her device. The accused was released, but authorities are now probing whether any sexual activity occurred and, if so, whether it was consensual or forced.
The case has triggered a firestorm of criticism, with activists and legal experts warning that false allegations trivialize rape and undermine genuine victims. “Using such a serious charge to settle personal scores or express anger harms those who have suffered real trauma,” said Meera Gupta, a women’s rights advocate. “It fuels skepticism and weakens trust in the justice system.” Social media platforms, particularly X, have seen heated debates, with many expressing frustration that such incidents could make it harder for legitimate rape cases to be taken seriously.
Police are continuing their investigation, focusing on the nature of the interaction between the woman and the accused. The woman has expressed reluctance to pursue action against her friend, raising questions about her initial motives. Legal experts note that filing a false complaint could lead to charges under Section 182 of the Indian Penal Code for providing false information to authorities, though no decision has been made on whether she will face prosecution.
This incident underscores the delicate balance between supporting victims and ensuring accountability for false claims. As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the damage caused when serious allegations are misused, casting a shadow over efforts to deliver justice for survivors of sexual violence.
