The Supreme Court held that Section 498A IPC may apply to a live-in relationship that qualifies as a “relationship in the nature of marriage.” In Dr. Lokesh B.H. & Ors. v. State of Karnataka & Anr., the Court considered whether the expression “husband” could extend to a male partner in a genuine marriage-like relationship. The Court adopted a purposive interpretation, emphasizing that Section 498A is intended to protect women from domestic cruelty. However, the protection does not automatically cover every intimate or live-in relationship. The relationship must involve consenting adults and possess characteristics substantially resembling marriage, including stability, shared domestic life, emotional or financial interdependence and an intention to marry. The Court also stressed that the interpretation is limited to Section 498A and does not automatically alter other matrimonial or personal laws. Importantly, safeguards against unnecessary arrest under Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar must continue to be followed