SC Orders Man to Pay ₹3 Lakh Compensation for Breaking Marriage Over Gold Demand

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of one M Venkateswaran’s under Section 498A IPC and Section 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act for harassing his wife over dowry and refusing to cooperate during their wedding reception.

The case began with a 2007 complaint after the marriage lasted only three days due to his demand for 100 gold sovereigns.

The Madras High Court upheld his conviction in 2022 but reduced his sentence.

The Supreme Court modified his sentence to time already served, considering 19 years of litigation and both parties have moved on with their lives.

The court directed him to pay ₹3 lakh compensation within four weeks, or his appeal will be dismissed.