Delhi High Court quashes FIRs filed by wife after husband pays Rs 39 lakh settlement

The Delhi High Court has dismissed two criminal cases filed against a man, stating that he resolved his matrimonial issues with his wife by paying her a settlement of Rs 39 lakh and obtaining a mutual-consent divorce in 2024. The court deemed the possibility of conviction "remote" and noted that continuing the cases would place an "unnecessary burden" on the justice system and public resources.

The man, separated from his wife since 2014 and divorced in 2024, married in 2010 and had a son in 2011. They lived separately due to matrimonial discord and temperamental differences. The wife lodged a complaint in 2014, leading to the registration of an FIR. In 2024, they entered into a settlement through the counselling cell of the Family Court, Rohini, agreeing to dissolve their marriage by mutual consent.

The husband paid Rs 39 lakh as full and final settlement for his wife's claims, including istridhan, permanent alimony, and maintenance. The wife confirmed the settlement was voluntary and without coercion. The court held that the settlement terms had been complied with and granted relief, noting that the minor child's custody remained with the wife.