Supreme Court Rules on Financial Control in Marital Disputes

Supreme Court's Stance on Marital Financial Control

The Supreme Court has ruled that a husband's financial dominance over his estranged wife does not constitute cruelty in a deteriorating marital relationship. The court emphasized that criminal proceedings should not be utilized as a means for revenge or personal vendetta.

This statement was made by a bench comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan while dismissing a criminal case filed by a woman against her husband, alleging cruelty and dowry harassment.

In overturning the Telangana High Court's decision, which had denied the cancellation of the FIR, Justice Nagarathna remarked that the financial and monetary control claimed by the respondent cannot be viewed as cruelty, especially when no substantial mental or physical harm has been demonstrated.

She noted, "This reflects the reality of Indian society, where men often attempt to exert control over women's financial matters. However, criminal cases should not be used for revenge or personal retribution."

Justice Nagarathna, who authored the judgment, also rejected the notion that requesting details of the expenses sent to the estranged wife could be considered an act of cruelty.

The bench stated, "Courts must exercise extreme caution when addressing complaints and should consider the practical realities in marital cases, ensuring that allegations are examined with care and prudence to prevent the misuse of legal processes."

This ruling was delivered on December 19 in response to an appeal filed by the husband against the High Court's order from April 27, 2023, which had refused to quash the FIR against him and his family members.