Man booked for concealing marital status

Accused allegedly entered into second marriage without first wife’s consent

RAWALPINDI:

An Additional District and Sessions Court in Rawalpindi has ordered the registration of a case against a man who falsely declared himself unmarried on his second marriage certificate. The Additional District and Sessions Judge’s directive includes charges of fraud, deception, and concealment of facts.

Following the court's order, the Sadiqabad police station has registered a case against the accused husband under criminal provisions 465, 420, and 495. Raids to apprehend the accused are underway, though he has reportedly gone into hiding.

Representing the second wife, Neelam Amin, Umar Sohail Shah and Rashid Umar Advocates filed a 22A petition in court. They contended that the accused, Wajid Mansoor, committed fraud by posing as unmarried when he married Neelam Amin on December 26, 2020. The first wife, Uzma Habib, had married Mansoor on September 10, 2017. Both marriage certificates were presented in court.

When confronted about his second marriage, Mansoor initially denied it. He allegedly took 16 tolas of jewellery and cash from the home during this period. The accused has children from both marriages. The court declared this a case of fraud, forgery, and concealment of facts, which it deemed unacceptable in society.

The judge stated that Mansoor could have legally remarried if he had been honest about his marital status. The court emphasised that fraud and forgery cannot be tolerated and ordered the Sadiqabad Station House Officer (SHO) to register a case against Mansoor. He could face up to ten years in prison under the applicable criminal provisions if found guilty.

This case highlights significant issues regarding marital fraud and the importance of transparency in personal relationships. The court's decision aims to set a precedent against such deceitful practices, ensuring that individuals who engage in fraudulent behaviour are held accountable.