False Allegations of Impotency by Wife Amounts to Cruelty: Karnataka High Court
The Karnataka High Court recently ruled that if a wife accuses her husband of being impotent without any proof, it counts as mental cruelty. This decision falls under Section 13(1)(ia) of the Hindu Marriage Act, which deals with cruelty as a reason for divorce.
The case was heard by Justices S. Sunil Dutt Yadav and K.S. Hemalekha. They reversed an earlier family court decision that had rejected the husband’s divorce request.
Case Background
The husband said that the wife was supportive only during the first month of their marriage. Later, her attitude changed. She refused to do household work and accused him of being unfit as a husband. She even told relatives from both sides that he was impotent. These public accusations caused him shame and emotional pain, making it impossible for him to continue the marriage.
His lawyer, Advocate Srinand A. Pachchapure, argued that the wife’s disrespectful behavior and false claims caused both mental and physical suffering. The wife made these serious allegations in front of his parents and relatives, worsening the situation.
Wife’s Response
The wife claimed that their marriage was never consummated, and she doubted her husband’s ability to fulfill his marital duties. She also said she was willing to continue the marriage despite his supposed inability.
Court’s Observations
After reviewing the case, the court found no evidence to prove the husband was impotent. The wife had not taken any steps to confirm her claims. The judges said that making such serious accusations in public without proof damages a person’s dignity and reputation.
The court added that a sensible woman would avoid making such private matters public unless she had solid proof. False allegations like this can cause deep mental suffering and ruin relationships.
Final Judgment
The court decided that the wife had failed to prove her claim. Since the husband had even agreed to a medical test, the false accusation alone was enough to be considered cruelty.
The High Court criticized the family court for not taking the matter seriously and ruled in favor of the husband. The marriage was dissolved.
The court also upheld the earlier decision of giving the wife ₹8,000 per month as permanent alimony until she remarries.
Case No: MFA NO.102625/2015 (MC)
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