New Delhi: The Supreme Court has expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of misuse of laws related to dowry harassment, domestic violence and child sexual abuse, saying that frivolous complaints are increasingly being used as pressure tactics in matrimonial disputes.
A bench comprising B. V. Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan observed that genuine victims risk being overshadowed by a large number of false or exaggerated cases filed after marital relationships break down.
Court Notes Rise in ‘Matrimonial Bouquet’ Cases
The bench remarked that once a marriage turns sour, estranged spouses often initiate multiple legal proceedings simultaneously—a phenomenon it referred to as a “matrimonial bouquet.”
According to the court, such litigation frequently contains allegations of harassment, cruelty and abuse that are either unsupported by evidence or lack substantive material backing.
The judges said courts are increasingly burdened by vague and vexatious disputes arising out of marital conflicts, requiring careful scrutiny to distinguish legitimate grievances from baseless claims.
Concerns Over Misuse of POCSO Allegations
The court specifically highlighted instances where allegations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act are allegedly used as a tool in matrimonial disputes.
The bench observed that in some cases mothers accuse fathers of sexual offences against their daughters, and courts must be vigilant where there are indications that children have been influenced or coached to make false accusations.
The judges warned that such allegations, if fabricated, can be used to seek higher financial settlements, exact revenge or harass estranged spouses.
Proceedings Quashed in Specific Case
The observations came while the Supreme Court quashed criminal proceedings filed under the POCSO Act against a girl’s father, uncle and other family members.
After examining the record, the court found insufficient evidence to support the allegations and concluded that the complainant had been influenced by her mother.
Need to Protect Genuine Victims
At the same time, the bench emphasised that many women genuinely seek protection from abuse and harassment and that courts must remain sensitive to legitimate complaints.
The judges stressed that the judicial system’s responsibility is to separate genuine cases from false ones while ensuring that innocent individuals are not deprived of their rights through baseless litigation.
Warning Against Judicial Overreach
The court also cautioned that excessive or unwarranted intervention in matrimonial disputes can have serious consequences for the mental and physical well-being of those involved.
It urged courts to exercise restraint and carefully assess evidence before proceeding with criminal cases, particularly where allegations carry severe social and legal consequences.
The ruling underscores the judiciary’s attempt to strike a balance between protecting victims of domestic and sexual abuse and preventing misuse of laws intended to provide those protections.
