The Supreme Court has ruled that disapproval of a marriage does not amount to abetment of suicide under Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma dismissed a chargesheet against a woman accused of abetting the suicide of another woman, who was allegedly in love with her son.

The court noted that the evidence, including witness statements, did not establish a direct or indirect act of instigation by the accused. The deceased’s family was reportedly unhappy with the relationship, and the accused’s disapproval of the marriage did not create circumstances forcing the deceased to take her life. The bench emphasized that a mere remark, such as asking someone to reconsider their actions, does not constitute abetment unless it directly pushes the individual toward the act of suicide.

Highlighting the misuse of legal provisions, the court reiterated the need for concrete evidence to sustain charges under Section 306 IPC. It ruled that the acts alleged against the accused were too remote to be considered an instigation for suicide. The judgment underscores the principle that familial disapproval alone cannot be deemed sufficient to attract such serious charges.