The High Court of Madhya Pradesh, Jabalpur Bench, upheld the Family Court’s refusal to grant divorce, reiterating settled principles on cruelty and desertion under matrimonial law. The husband alleged that his wife was rude, neglected marital duties, and deserted the matrimonial home. The wife denied these claims, stating she was compelled to leave due to mental harassment and remained willing to resume cohabitation. The Court held that cruelty must be proved through specific, cogent evidence. General and unsubstantiated allegations such as quarrelling, mobile phone use, or refusal to attend social functions do not constitute legal cruelty. The husband failed to produce documentary or medical evidence to support his claims. On desertion, the Court emphasized that mere separation is insufficient. Desertion requires animus deserendi—a clear and settled intention to permanently abandon the marital relationship. Since the wife expressed willingness to return, this intention was not established. The Court also rejected divorce on the ground of irretrievable breakdown alone, holding that a recognized matrimonial wrong must be proved. The appeal was accordingly dismissed.