What it involves
Complaints of cruelty and dowry demand are now registered under Sections 85, 86 and 80 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replace Sections 498A and 304B of the IPC. Maintenance is claimed under Section 144 BNSS, formerly Section 125 CrPC.
The Supreme Court has cautioned against automatic arrest in such cases and against general allegations that name every relative of the husband without specific acts. Where the spouses settle, the High Court may quash the proceedings.
Matters
- Cruelty and dowry related offences
- Maintenance proceedings and revisions
- Domestic violence matters
- Quashing on settlement between the spouses
How a matter proceeds
RecordThe FIR or complaint and the history of the marriage and earlier proceedings are examined.
RemedyAnticipatory bail, bail, quashing, or a revision in maintenance matters.
MediationWhere both sides wish, the court may refer the parties to mediation.
General information on the law as it stands on 15 November 2026. It is not legal advice and does not create an advocate–client relationship.