Suicide Threats By Spouse Justify Divorce
The Bombay High Court ruled that threats by spouse or attempting suicide amounts to cruelty in a marriage. This can serve as valid grounds for divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act. The court dismissed a woman’s appeal against a family court’s decision that granted her husband a divorce on grounds of cruelty.
Husband’s Allegations Against Wife
The husband claimed that his wife frequently threatened to take one’s life and falsely implicate him and his older parents. He further alleged that she once attempted suicide by cutting her veins. To conceal the injury, she applied mehendi on her hands before appearing in court.
Wife’s Accusations Against Husband’s Father
The woman accused her father-in-law of outraging her modesty. She claimed he was a person with alcohol use disorder who abused and attacked her. However, the trial court and appellate court found no evidence supporting her claims.
Court’s Reasoning and Verdict
The court found that the wife’s actions amounted to cruelty. The trial court’s decision to grant the husband a divorce was upheld. The judge ruled that there was no legal basis to interfere with the previous rulings.
The woman’s appeal was dismissed, confirming the divorce decree.
What is the Hindu Marriage Act?
The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, governs Hindu marriages in India. It sets rules for marriage, divorce, and rights. The law ensures legal protection for spouses. It defines valid and void marriages. It also provides grounds for divorce and separation.
Who Does It Apply To?
The Act applies to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. It also covers anyone who follows Hindu customs. It does not apply to Muslims, Christians, Parsis, or Jews. The law protects legal rights in marriage and divorce. Courts enforce its provisions strictly.
Grounds for Divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act
The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, lists specific reasons for divorce. These include adultery, cruelty, desertion, conversion, mental disorder, communicable diseases, and renunciation. Spouses can file for divorce if these conditions exist. The law ensures fairness in separation and protects individual rights. Legal experts help navigate divorce proceedings effectively.
