MP HC Sides with Husband in Marital Dispute, Says Spouses Must Maintain Respect in Conversations

The Madhya Pradesh High Court upheld a family court order in a marital dispute, dismissing a woman's petition against her husband. The woman alleged assault and a rs 25 lakh dowry demand, while the husband accused her of inappropriate phone conversations with male friends, discussing private marital details.

The High Court emphasized that post-marriage, both spouses should avoid indecent conversations with friends, particularly regarding intimate matters, as such behavior could constitute mental harassment if it causes discomfort to the other spouse. The court noted the importance of respectful communication, especially for women conversing with male friends, to avoid causing spousal distress.

The couple married in 2018. The husband, who disclosed a pre-existing hearing impairment, claimed his wife mistreated his mother and continued obscene conversations with her ex-boyfriend after marriage. The wife denied these claims, accusing him of fabricating evidence by hacking her phone and violating her privacy, and reiterated her allegations of domestic violence and dowry demands. Her father, however, admitted during the hearing to her habit of talking to men.