Definition of mental cruelty or mental harassment in relation to 498A of Indian Penal Code

The articulation "cruelty" has been characterized in wide terms to incorporate exacting physical or mental mischief to the body or soundness of the lady and enjoying demonstrations of badgering so as to force her or her relations to satisfy any unlawful need for any property or significant security.

Section 498A in the Indian Penal Code

376 [498A. Spouse or relative of husband of a lady exposing her to savagery.— Whoever, being the husband or the relative of the husband of a lady, subjects such lady to cold-bloodedness will be rebuffed with detainment for a term which might stretch out to three years and will likewise be at risk to fine. Clarification. — For the motivation behind this segment, "mercilessness" signifies—

(a) any obstinate direct which is of such a nature as is probably going to drive the lady to end it all or to make grave injury or peril life, appendage or wellbeing (regardless of whether mental or physical) of the lady; or

(b) badgering of the lady where such provocation is with the end goal of constraining her or any individual identified with her to satisfy any unlawful need for any property or significant security or is by virtue of disappointment by her or any individual identified with her to meet such demand.]

Reference Book: The Indian Penal Code