SC expands ambit of Sec 498A to cover cruelty in live-ins too
The Supreme Court has extended legal protection to live-in relationships. These relationships are now covered under Section 498A of the IPC. The court stated that the law must adapt to changing societal norms. Cruelty within such relationships will now be punishable by law. This decision aims to protect women from domestic violence and harassment.
The Supreme Court has expanded the scope of Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code to include live-in relationships, recognizing that such unions are prevalent in urban areas. The court held that the provision aims to protect women from cruelty in any form of relationship, not just traditional marriages. This decision follows a bench's rejection of the argument that Section 498A applies only to married couples.
The court emphasized that the primary objective of the law is to ensure women's equality and prevent domestic violence, regardless of the relationship's legal status. However, the court clarified that the protection under Section 498A is limited to live-in relationships that resemble marriage. The court also noted the growing misuse of the provision, which it deemed worrisome, and reaffirmed that the burden of proof lies with the female partner seeking protection.
The SC's decision reflects the evolving societal norms around relationships, recognizing that living together before marriage is becoming increasingly common and acceptable.
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