Supreme Court expands Section 498A to live-in relationships

The India — Supreme Court of India, in a landmark ruling on August 3, 2026, expanded the scope of Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code to apply to live-in relationships that are 'in the nature of marriage'. The bench, comprising Justices Sanjay Karol and N. Kotiswar Singh, held that a man in such a relationship can be prosecuted for cruelty against his partner, provided there is an intent to marry. The court clarified that this interpretation is limited to Section 498A and does not affect other provisions. It also directed that safeguards against arrest, including preliminary inquiries, must be strictly followed. The ruling aims to prevent domestic violence and aligns with Article 14 of the Constitution, ensuring equal protection for women in live-in relationships.