No arrest of innocents, proof of cruelty must in dowry cases: Supreme Court

Ruled alleged victim's account cannot be taken at face value, family welfare committee to be set up

Highlighting concerns regarding the misuse of anti-dowry law, the Supreme Court on Thursday said that no arrest or coercive action should be taken without verifying the allegations.

The apex court ruled that the account of an alleged victim cannot be taken at face value and directed all states to set up family welfare committee (FWC) in each district. Unless the FWC gives its report on the issue, no action should be taken against the husband and the in-laws, said Supreme Court.

Under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), a woman, who has been subjected to marital discord,