Bengaluru Woman Files Dowry Harassment Case Against Husband and Sexual Harassment Charges Against Father-in-Law

Sangeeta and Dr Govardhan established their marital union on November 2, 2023.

Bengaluru:

In November 2023, Sangeeta (name changed), a Bengaluru resident, embarked on her marital journey with Dr Govardhan. Two years later, she has filed a formal complaint alleging dowry harassment against her husband and sexual intimidation against her father-in-law, Professor Nagaraju.

The wedding ceremony took place on November 2, 2023, with both families in attendance. According to the First Information Report (FIR), Sangeeta's parents covered all expenses, including the procurement of gold and silver ornaments for both bride and groom, as well as dowry payments. The total expenditure by Sangeeta's father amounted to Rs 25 lakh.

The FIR details that Dr Govardhan received numerous gifts including a gold hand basket, a gold neck chain, an engagement ring, 75 grams of gold, and clothing. Similarly, Sangeeta's father presented his daughter with gold, silver items, and household utensils.

Following a week-long stay with Dr Govardhan's parents, the couple relocated to a rental property near Uchangi, approximately 250 kilometers from Bengaluru, convenient to his workplace.

Within just 15 days after their wedding, Dr Govardhan reportedly began demanding a portion of Sangeeta's parents' property and rental income, suggesting this was necessary for her acceptance as his wife.

Sangeeta claims that her husband would consistently return late from work, often after 11 pm, and would avoid conversation, refuse her prepared meals, and show no interest in her wellbeing. According to her statement, Dr Govardhan expressed that she wasn't a suitable match for him, but had proceeded with the marriage anticipating she would bring half of her parents' property, enabling him to leave his government position and establish a nursing home.

The complaint further details disturbing sexual advances from her father-in-law. Sangeeta accuses Professor Nagaraju of making inappropriate remarks and physically harassing her.

In her FIR, she quotes him saying: "It's been months since the marriage; why is there no good news from you?"

Professor Nagaraju allegedly made more explicit comments, asking: "Is my son even having sexual relations with you? If not, I'll come myself."

She further alleges that he inappropriately touched her hand and waist, pinched her cheeks in her husband's presence, and urged her to "dress like modern girls" and "wear half-clothes" when around him.

When Sangeeta voiced her concerns to her husband and mother-in-law, they reportedly dismissed the issue, advising her to adapt since it was "all within the family."

Sangeeta remained silent until a planned visit to her parents for a family ceremony, when Dr Govardhan allegedly conditioned her departure on returning with property documents and money.

Unable to endure the continued harassment, Sangeeta has now registered a case of sexual harassment. Investigations are currently in progress.