Man wins legal battle to keep Rs 35 lakh from cheating ex-girlfriend who had affair with his nephew

The case reached a Shanghai court, where the judge sided with the man. (Representational)

A Shanghai court has ruled that a man, surnamed Li, is not obligated to return the 300,000 yuan (approximately ₹34.98 lakh) his ex-girlfriend, Xu, transferred to him in an effort to save their tumultuous relationship. The decision comes after Xu, who had cheated on Li multiple times—including with his nephew—claimed the money was a conditional gift meant for their eventual marriage.

Li and Xu began dating in 2018, but their relationship hit a breaking point two years later when Li discovered her affair with his nephew. Overwhelmed by anger and betrayal, Li initially wanted to sever ties. However, Xu, in a bid to salvage their relationship, penned an apology letter, admitting to her repeated infidelity.

“I have deeply reflected on my mistakes. Yes, I’ve cheated on you multiple times, causing you immense pain,” Xu wrote in the letter, as reported by the Shanghai Morning Post. “I am sincerely remorseful. I will correct my mistakes and compensate you with my sincerity.”

Xu followed her words with action, transferring 300,000 yuan to Li through multiple bank transactions over two days. Her gesture appeared to work temporarily, as the couple continued their relationship until 2022.

The peace shattered when Li uncovered that Xu was still involved with his nephew. This revelation led to their final breakup, after which Xu demanded the return of the money, asserting it was given with the understanding they would marry. Li refused, arguing that the funds were compensation for the emotional turmoil and betrayal he endured.

Earlier this year, the case reached a Shanghai court, where the judge sided with Li. The court ruled that the money was not a conditional gift tied to marriage but a voluntary transfer made by Xu to repair their relationship. As such, Li was under no obligation to return the amount.

In August, a separate incident in Zhejiang province saw two senior doctors engage in a violent confrontation over a nurse with whom they were both having an affair. The scuffle left one doctor hospitalised in the ICU he managed.