In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has granted women in marriage-like live-in relationships the right to seek protection under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. This ruling recognizes that cruelty can affect all forms of relationships, not just traditional marriages. The court, while supporting this progressive stance, urged caution against potential misuse and emphasized that the burden of proof lies with the applicant.

The Supreme Court ruled that Section 498A can apply to live-in relationships resembling marriage, where both parties intended to marry

The Supreme Court has expanded Section 498A to include live-in relationships. This provision now covers partners if an intent to marry is established. The court stated that the…