Yes, a woman can file a complaint against her husband’s relatives if she faces harassment, cruelty, domestic violence, dowry demands, threats, or any other unlawful behavior from them. The complaint can be filed against family members such as the mother-in-law, father-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, or other relatives if their involvement in the alleged acts can be shown.
Depending on the situation, she may seek remedies under laws such as:
- Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (which replaced IPC Section 498A) for cruelty by the husband or his relatives.
- The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 for protection orders, residence rights, maintenance, and other reliefs.
- Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 if dowry demands or related harassment are involved.
However, a complaint should include specific details such as the names of the persons involved, dates or incidents of harassment, and supporting evidence wherever possible. Courts generally examine whether the allegations are genuine and whether the relatives had an active role in the alleged misconduct. False or vague complaints may be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence.
