The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday cautioned against the misuse of the cruelty law in marital dispute cases lodged by women. In another case, the SC also listed factors to fix permanent alimony amounts.

The 34-year-old techie, who worked for a private firm in Bengaluru, allegedly committed suicide alleging harassment by his wife and her family members who are from Jaunpur.

A Bengaluru techie's suicide sparks calls for reform of Section 498A. Advocate Vikas Pahwa highlights misuse of the anti-dowry harassment law. False cases cause distress and financial strain on families.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court bench said that the inclusion of Section 498A by way of an amendment was intended to curb cruelty inflicted on a woman by her husband and his family, ensuring swift intervention by the State.

Vikas Pahwa suggested making Section 498-A bailable, introducing gender-neutral provisions to allow husbands to file complaints against harassment by wives, and requiring mandatory mediation before filing cases.

The Supreme Court raises concerns over the growing misuse of Section 498A of the IPC following the tragic suicide of a Bengaluru techie