Pune: Wakad Resident Acquitted in False Dowry, IPC 377 Case with Help from Men’s Rights NGO

Pune, 11th April 2025: The Save Indian Family Foundation (SIFF), a non-governmental organization advocating for men’s rights, has marked a significant victory in its ongoing campaign against harassment and false accusations in matrimonial disputes. With the NGO’s legal support and guidance, Wakad resident Nikunj Shah successfully defended himself against multiple criminal charges, including serious allegations under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.

Early Marriage and Strained Relations
Nikunj married in January 2016 and initially shared a warm relationship with his wife. However, after the birth of their son in January 2022, tensions began to surface. Following a visit to her parents’ home in February 2022, his wife began restricting contact between their son and Nikunj’s family, citing dissatisfaction with her in-laws. She later refused to return unless the couple lived separately, making allegations of mistreatment by the in-laws.

Despite Nikunj’s repeated efforts to resolve the matter amicably, his wife maintained her stance, insisting on separation. Nikunj alleged that she used access to their child as a means to pressure him.

Legal Disputes and Imprisonment
In mid-2023, Nikunj filed a petition for Restitution of Conjugal Rights and Child Custody, after being denied access to his son for several months. In response, his wife filed multiple cases against him, including serious allegations under IPC Sections 498A (cruelty by husband or relatives), dowry harassment, and IPC 377 (unnatural offences).

Nikunj was arrested and jailed in Indore, where he claimed he was treated like a criminal and felt unheard. During this period, his elderly parents—already dealing with major health issues—faced immense emotional and financial strain.

Key Legal Victories
1. Discharge from IPC Section 377 Allegation
With SIFF’s legal assistance, Nikunj challenged the misuse of Section 377, arguing that it does not apply in matrimonial contexts between consenting spouses. Citing relevant High Court judgments from Jabalpur and Allahabad, he filed a discharge application in the Indore Sessions Court. The court accepted his arguments and dismissed the charge within four months.

2. Maintenance Claim Rejected under CrPC 125
Nikunj also contested his wife’s maintenance claim by presenting evidence of her qualifications and income. He informed the court that she held an MBA, had overseas work experience, and was financially self-sufficient. Based on this, the Family Court in Indore rejected her claim for monetary support.

SIFF’s Role and Personal Transformation
Nikunj credited SIFF with turning the tide in his legal battle. While in jail, he connected with the organization and received legal advice and emotional support. SIFF Pune’s mentorship helped him recover mentally and navigate the complex legal procedures with confidence.

“The support from SIFF was a turning point. They gave me the knowledge, strength, and community to stand up against the injustice I was facing,” Nikunj said.