The Kerala High Court ruled that a domestic violence victim’s sole testimony can justify conviction under Section 498-A IPC if it is convincing and reliable. However, in this case, the Court acquitted a husband and his parents, finding the wife’s allegations unproven. The prosecution accused the husband of dowry harassment, misappropriating gold and cash, and forcing an abortion. The trial court convicted them under Section 498-A IPC, relying mainly on the wife’s testimony. But the High Court found no credible proof of forced abortion, as medical records showed a missed abortion and the doctor’s testimony contradicted the claim. Allegations of physical abuse lacked medical or independent evidence. The Court clarified that not every quarrel or act of harassment amounts to cruelty. Only those acts that meet the legal definition under the two limbs of Section 498-A’s explanation qualify.
A single severe act can justify conviction, but minor disputes don’t. Citing inconsistencies and lack of evidence, the High Court overturned the conviction and ordered the refund of fines, reinforcing the need for credible proof in cruelty cases.
