illustration of domestic violence laws in india

Is Mental Harassment Considered Domestic Violence?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

Is Mental Harassment Considered Domestic Violence? Many people believe that domestic violence requires physical injury. This is incorrect. Indian law clearly recognises that mental harassment and emotional abuse can also amount to domestic violence if it seriously affects a person’s dignity, safety, or mental well-being. What Is Mental Harassment? Mental harassment refers to behaviour that causes continuous emotional pain, psychological …

illustration of domestic violence laws in india

Difference Between Cruelty and Domestic Violence

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

Difference Between Cruelty and Domestic Violence Many people use the terms cruelty and domestic violence interchangeably. Legally, however, they are not the same. While both deal with abusive behaviour within marriage or domestic relationships, they serve different legal purposes and lead to different remedies. What Is Cruelty in Simple Terms? Cruelty refers to behaviour by one spouse that causes such …

Illustration of legality of live in relationships in india

What Is Domestic Violence Under Indian Law?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

What Is Domestic Violence Under Indian Law? Domestic violence is often misunderstood as only physical beating. Under Indian law, however, domestic violence has a much wider meaning and covers several forms of abuse within a household. The law recognises that harm inside a home may be physical, mental, emotional, verbal, or economic, and all of these can seriously affect a …

Illustration of legality of live in relationships in india

Can Parents or Police Force Live-In Couples to Separate?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

Can Parents or Police Force Live-In Couples to Separate? Couples in live-in relationships often face pressure from families or interference from police. A common fear is whether parents or police can legally force two adults in a live-in relationship to separate. The answer depends on law, consent, age, and circumstances — not on social approval. Is a Live-In Relationship Illegal …

Illustration of legality of live in relationships in india

Can Women in Live-In Relationships Use Domestic Violence Law?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

Can Women in Live-In Relationships Use the Domestic Violence Law? A very common doubt among women is whether the Domestic Violence law applies only to married women, or whether it also protects women in live-in relationships. The clear legal position today is that women in certain live-in relationships can seek protection under the Domestic Violence law, even if they are …

Illustration of legality of live in relationships in india

Live-In Relationship vs Marriage: What Rights Do Women Have?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

Live-In Relationship vs Marriage: What Rights Do Women Have? Many women today are confused about how their legal rights differ in a live-in relationship compared to a marriage. While both involve living together, the law treats them differently. Understanding these differences helps women make informed and safe decisions about their personal lives. Is Marriage Necessary for Legal Protection? Marriage provides …

Illustration of legality of live in relationships in india

Are Live-In Relationships Legal in India?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

Are Live-In Relationships Legal in India? In recent years, many couples in India choose to live together without getting married. This often raises an important question in people’s minds — are live-in relationships legal in India? The simple answer is: Yes, live-in relationships are legal. Living together without marriage is not a crime under Indian law. Is Living Together Without …

Illustration of cruelty provisions for divorce of a hindu marriage

What Amounts to Cruelty in Divorce Cases in India?

Delhi Law Academy 3 Year LLB, 5 Year LLB, Criminal Law

What Amounts to Cruelty in Divorce Cases in India? Many people believe that cruelty in divorce means only physical violence. In reality, Indian courts have clearly held that cruelty includes mental, emotional and verbal behaviour as well. Insults, threats, constant humiliation, false accusations, and mental pressure can be just as damaging as physical abuse—and are legally recognised. Is Physical Violence …