Karnataka High Court Rules: Foul Language Alone Doesn’t Amount to Stalking

The Karnataka High Court dismissed stalking charges under Section 354D IPC against a man accused of sending profane messages to a woman after their consensual relationship ended.

The Court clarified that stalking involves repeated, unwelcome contact despite clear disinterest, not one-time or coarse communication.

However, the Court allowed other charges, including voyeurism, criminal intimidation, and offences under the SC/ST (Atrocities) Act, to proceed to trial.

The court stressed that profanity doesn’t automatically imply stalking and emphasised the need for distinct legal elements. (Abhishek Mishra v State of Karnataka & Anr.)