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  Judicial Recognition of Transwomen in Matrimonial Offences: A Landmark Interpretation of Section 498-A IPC By Advocate Abhishek Jat In a groundbreaking judgment that furthers the jurisprudential recognition of transgender rights in India, the Hon’ble High Court of Andhra Pradesh, in Viswanathan Krishna Murthy & Ors. v. State of Andhra Pradesh & Anr. (Criminal Petition Nos. 6783, 7064, and 6830 of 2022), delivered on 16 June 2025 by Dr. Justice Venkata Jyothirmai Pratapa, addressed the novel issue of whether a transwoman, who is in a heterosexual marriage, can seek protection under Section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC), and Section 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. The Court not only affirmed the transwoman’s right to file a complaint under matrimonial offence provisions but also quashed the proceedings against the accused due to absence of specific allegations, thereby harmonizing gender justice with safeguards against misuse of criminal law. Backgro...

  Delhi High Court Reiterates Judicial Prudence in Section 498A IPC Cases By Abhishek Jat, Advocate The Delhi High Court’s recent judgment in  Ajay vs. State & Anr.  has brought renewed attention to the application and misuse of  Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) , a provision designed to protect women from dowry-related harassment and cruelty. While the ruling does not introduce new legal doctrines, it reinforces established precedents and underscores the importance of judicial prudence in handling matrimonial disputes. The Court’s decision to quash the FIR in this case highlights the need for a balanced approach, ensuring that genuine grievances are addressed while preventing the misuse of legal provisions for personal vendettas. Detailed Case Analysis: Ajay vs. State & Anr. Background of the Case The petitioner, Ajay, sought the quashing of  FIR No. 262/2017 , registered under  Sections 498A/34 IPC , which alleged dowry harassm...