Live-in partners can seek protection under Section 498A, says Supreme Court

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court said Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with cruelty by a husband or his relatives, would also apply to partners in live-in relationships, expanding the scope of the provision beyond formally married couples. The court said the law must evolve with changing social realities and ensure protection for individuals facing harassment in live-in relationships.The bench observed that legal safeguards against cruelty should not be restricted to marriage alone. It also clarified that live-in partners need not necessarily be a man and a woman, recognising that such relationships may take different forms.Section 498A prescribes imprisonment of up to three years and a fine for subjecting a woman to cruelty. The law defines cruelty as conduct likely to drive a woman to suicide, cause serious physical or mental harm, or harassment aimed at coercing unlawful demands for property or valuable security, including dowry.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.