Domestic violence is a serious problem that affects individuals and families across the world. It can be perpetrated by anyone, including close relatives, such as in-laws. In India, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, recognizes the fact that domestic violence can be committed by anyone, including relatives of the husband. In this blog post, we will examine some case laws that demonstrate the responsibility of relatives of the husband for domestic violence.

1. Sujata Mukherjee v. Prashant Kumar Mukherjee (2015)

In this case, the Delhi High Court held that the sister-in-law of the husband was liable for domestic violence committed against the wife. The court held that the sister-in-law had played an active role in the physical and mental torture of the wife, including making false allegations and instigating the husband to abuse the wife.

2. Ramesh Kumar v. State of Haryana (2017)

In this case, the Supreme Court held that the mother-in-law of the wife was liable for domestic violence committed against the wife. The court held that the mother-in-law had subjected the wife to physical and mental harassment, including demanding dowry and making false allegations.

3. Harjit Kaur v. State of Punjab (2016)

In this case, the Punjab and Haryana High Court held that the brother-in-law of the husband was liable for domestic violence committed against the wife. The court held that the brother-in-law had actively participated in the physical and mental torture of the wife, including making false allegations and threatening the wife.

4. Babubhai Dabhi v. State of Gujarat (2017)

In this case, the Gujarat High Court held that the sister-in-law of the husband was liable for domestic violence committed against the wife. The court held that the sister-in-law had subjected the wife to physical and mental harassment, including beating, and demanding dowry.

Conclusion

The above cases demonstrate that relatives of the husband can be held responsible for domestic violence committed against the wife. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, recognizes the fact that domestic violence can be perpetrated by anyone, including close relatives. It is important to remember that domestic violence is a serious crime and should not be tolerated under any circumstances. Individuals who are victims of domestic violence should seek legal help and protection as soon as possible.