Telangana HC advises amicable settlement in family dispute, remarks about misuse of 498A

Hyderabad: In a hearing concerning a dispute involving a woman and her family members in a marriage case, Justice Jukanti Anil Kumar of the Telangana High Court made strong observations urging both sides to resolve the matter amicably and avoid unnecessary litigation.

Justice Anil Kumar stressed that even the police must strictly follow the judicial process, especially when cases involve foreign nationals. He cautioned the family members, noting, “We don’t want the 11 members of the family fighting with the girl. If they are interested, let the girl marry and go off. Let them not get involved in all these issues.”

‘She can’t be forced to stay against her wishes’

Emphasising the woman’s autonomy, the court remarked that she has her own career and aspirations and cannot be forced to stay against her wishes. “If she is not interested in staying with you, let her go her own way. Why do you force her? Allegations are always there amongst both parties,” the judge said.

Strict clarity on Section 498A IPC

Referring to recent Supreme Court rulings, Justice Anil Kumar pointed out that the Apex Court, particularly Justice BV Nagarathna, has taken a stringent view in cases filed under Section 498A IPC, observing that complaints must clearly make out an offence even at the initial stage.

Finding the matter unsuitable for prolonged litigation, the court opined that this was ‘not a fit case to entertain such issues’ and advised the parties to settle the dispute amicably.