Last year, just two months into our marriage, my wife left me. She later admitted she had been forced into the marriage and was emotionally entangled in a decade-long previous relationship. Our marriage was never consummated. Initially, her family agreed to a mutual divorce. However, some time later, they unexpectedly filed a false FIR under Section 498A, accusing me and my family of dowry harassment.
Eventually, we resolved the matter privately, and her father agreed to withdraw the false charges. Despite this verbal assurance, no action has been taken from their side to get the FIR quashed. We continue to receive calls from the police station, asking us to come in for station bail, under the threat of arrest.
We’ve repeatedly informed the police that the matter has been settled amicably and that her father admitted the allegations were baseless. Still, the pressure persists, raising concerns that they may be attempting to extort money.
- What is the procedure for withdrawing or quashing an FIR under Section 498A once the matter is settled? What steps should the girl’s father take to legally close this case?
- What is the expected timeline for such withdrawals? It’s been over two weeks since he claimed he would act on it, but there has been no progress.
- Is there a time limit before which we must approach the police for bail or intervention?
Since the FIR was filed over a month ago, I want to understand our legal obligations and deadlines. - Are there precautions I or my family should take in light of these false allegations?
We’re unsure if the girl’s father has other intentions, and we want to be legally and mentally prepared.
