Asking Wife To Share Household Costs Doesn’t Amount To Cruelty, Rules Calcutta High Court

The Calcutta High Court quashed criminal proceedings filed by a wife against her husband and in-laws under IPC Section 498A, SC/ST Act, Dowry Prohibition Act, and Juvenile Justice Act.

Justice Ajay Kumar Gupta held that allegations such as sharing household expenses, feeding the child, or paying EMIs cannot amount to “cruelty”.

The Court noted the absence of specific dates, medical reports, or independent witness support, and observed that alleged caste-based remarks were made privately, not in public view, making SC/ST charges unsustainable.

Finding the claims vague and unsupported, the Court ruled that continuing the case would prejudice the accused.