UNSEEN SUFFERINGS: THE MISAPPLICATION AND BIASES OF INDIAN LAWS ON CRUELTY AGAINST HUSBANDS

Abstract

Cruelty against husbands in India is a pressing yet under recognized issue that underscores significant gaps in the legal and social framework. While existing laws, such as Section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code, aim to address domestic violence, their gender-specific nature and frequent misuse have led to unintended consequences, subjecting innocent husbands and their families to undue hardship. This paper explores the complexities of cruelty faced by husbands, judicial observations on such cases, and the societal stigma that often silences male victims. It advocates for gender-neutral legal reforms, such as revising biased provisions and ensuring safeguards against misuse, alongside societal shifts to challenge stereotypes around masculinity. By highlighting judicial precedents and missed opportunities for inclusivity in recent legal reforms, the study calls for an equitable approach to marital cruelty, promoting fairness and dignity for all individuals in the marital institution. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for systemic change to ensure justice for all.