In November 2011, an Army Major posted in Assam faced serious legal consequences after attempting to divorce his wife by pronouncing “talaq” over the phone. The Supreme Court dismissed his Special Leave Petition (SLP) seeking to stay his arrest in a dowry case connected with the incident.
The dismissal reinforced the Court’s disapproval of informal or unilateral divorce practices that violate both due process and gender rights. It also highlighted the judiciary’s consistent stance on dowry-related offences, ensuring accountability regardless of professional rank or status.
Highlights:
SC dismissed plea to stay arrest of Army Major.
Reinforced legal safeguards for women in matrimonial disputes.
Sent a message on the illegitimacy of informal “talaq” practices.
This case highlighted the Court’s role in protecting women’s rights while discouraging practices inconsistent with constitutional values.
