Chhattisgarh High Court’s Verdict on Dowry Harassment Case
In the case of Smt. Pratibha Yadav vs. Rajkumar Yadav (FAM No. 63 of 2017), the Chhattisgarh High Court recently rendered a judgment on April 18, 2024. The case pertained to a divorce petition filed by the husband under Section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, alleging dowry harassment. The court’s decision upheld the divorce decree granted by the Family Court despite the wife’s contentions of cruelty.
Background and Allegations
The marriage between Smt. Pratibha Yadav and Rajkumar Yadav took place on June 23, 2010, and subsequently, a child was born. The husband accused the wife of pressuring him to separate from their joint family and failing to fulfill her marital duties. Additionally, he cited an incident where the wife lodged a false dowry harassment complaint, leading to his arrest and subsequent acquittal.
Legal Proceedings and Arguments
During the trial, both parties presented evidence and witnesses. While the wife argued that the divorce petition was a form of harassment, the husband maintained that the wife’s actions constituted cruelty. The court, after evaluating the evidence and legal precedents, granted the divorce decree in favor of the husband.
Court’s Decision and Rationale
The Chhattisgarh High Court, citing legal precedents including the Supreme Court’s ruling in Rani Narasimha Sastry vs. Rani Suneela Rani, upheld the divorce decree. The court reasoned that the wife’s false dowry harassment complaint, which led to the husband’s acquittal, constituted cruelty. Consequently, the appeal filed by the wife was dismissed.
Conclusion
The court’s decision underscores the importance of fair legal proceedings and the consequences of lodging false complaints. By upholding the divorce decree, the Chhattisgarh High Court reaffirmed the principle of justice and deterrence against malicious litigation.
