In a significant decision, the Delhi High Court quashed an FIR registered under Sections 498A (cruelty by husband or relatives), 406 (criminal breach of trust), and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The ruling came after the complainant and the accused reached a mutual settlement, resolving their disputes outside court.
Background of the Case
The case, CRL.M.C. 2724/2025, involved petitioners Raj Kumar and others seeking the quashing of FIR No. 469/2023 filed at Amar Colony Police Station. The complainant, respondent no. 2, had accused the petitioners of offences related to marital cruelty and breach of trust. However, during the proceedings, both parties arrived at a compromise.
Court Proceedings and Settlement
Justice Girish Kathpalia presided over the matter and recorded detailed statements from the parties. The complainant, identified by Investigating Officer ASI Mehar Chand, confirmed before the court that she had settled all disputes with the petitioners. As part of the settlement, she received Rs. 2,00,000 as full and final compensation. Additionally, the marriage between her and petitioner no. 1 had been legally dissolved through a divorce decree, and there were no children from the union.
Read also:- Appointment of Five New Judges to the Allahabad High Court
The complainant explicitly stated that she no longer wished to pursue the case against the petitioners. The State, represented by APP Ms. Manjeet Arya, raised no objections to the quashing of the FIR.
After reviewing the settlement terms and the complainant’s voluntary withdrawal of the complaint, Justice Kathpalia concluded that forcing the parties into a trial would not serve the interests of justice. The court emphasized the importance of resolving disputes amicably, especially in cases where both parties have mutually agreed to move on.
Read also:- Supreme Court Allows Pollution Boards to Recover Environmental Damages Under Water and Air Acts
"Considering the above circumstances, I am satisfied that it would be in the interest of justice not to push the parties through trial."
- Justice Girish Kathpalia
Consequently, the court allowed the petition and quashed FIR No. 469/2023 along with all related proceedings.
Implications of the Judgment
This ruling highlights the judiciary’s willingness to acknowledge and respect out-of-court settlements in criminal cases, particularly those involving marital disputes. It underscores the importance of mutual consent and compromise in reducing the burden on the legal system while ensuring justice for all parties involved.
Read also:- SC Upholds Renewable Tariff Rights: GUVNL Cannot Impose Rs.3.56 Tariff Without Accelerated Depreciation
The decision also serves as a reminder that legal disputes, especially those of a personal nature, can often be resolved through dialogue and mutual agreement, avoiding prolonged litigation.
Case Title: Raj Kumar & Ors. vs. State NCT of Delhi & Anr.
Case Number: CRL.M.C. 2724/2025