By Kirthi Srinivasan Iyer (B.Com, CS Executive, LL.B)
Sometimes, the most dangerous wounds are the ones that cannot be seen. Words, accusations, and repeated humiliation can quietly erode a person’s mental well-being until the burden becomes unbearable.
The tragic death of 24-year-old dentistry student Stuti Sonwane in Mumbai has once again drawn attention to a difficult but critical issue—emotional abuse within relationships. According to reports, a note recovered from her room alleged that she had been subjected to repeated humiliation, suspicion, and harassment by her boyfriend. The police have arrested him on charges of abetment to suicide, and the investigation is currently underway. While the legal process will determine accountability, the incident highlights the silent emotional struggles many young people endure.
The Hidden Nature of Emotional Abuse
Relationships often begin with trust, companionship, and the hope of emotional support. However, over time, dynamics can shift in subtle ways that are not immediately recognised. What may initially seem like possessiveness or frequent disagreements can gradually evolve into constant criticism, humiliation, and emotional control.
Repeated accusations, verbal insults, and attempts to dominate a partner’s choices can deeply impact mental health. Emotional abuse is particularly dangerous because it leaves no visible scars, yet its psychological consequences can be severe and long-lasting.
Legal Perspective: When Emotional Harm Becomes Criminal
From a legal standpoint, such conduct is not taken lightly under Indian law. Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code deals with abetment to suicide. If a person’s actions—such as persistent harassment, humiliation, or threats—are found to have driven someone to take their own life, it can result in serious criminal liability.
Punishment under this provision may extend up to ten years of imprisonment along with a fine. Depending on the circumstances, other legal provisions related to harassment, intimidation, or cruelty may also apply. The law, therefore, recognises that sustained mental harassment is not merely a personal issue but can, in certain cases, amount to a criminal offence.
However, legal intervention often occurs only after significant harm has already been done.
Recognising the Warning Signs
Awareness is crucial in preventing such situations. Identifying early warning signs in a relationship can help avoid escalation. Some key red flags include:
Constant suspicion without justification
Repeated insults or verbal degradation
Controlling behaviour or emotional manipulation
Attempts to isolate a partner from friends and family
These are not expressions of love or concern—they are indicators of an unhealthy and potentially harmful relationship.
Breaking the Silence
For many young women, speaking about emotional distress in relationships can be extremely difficult. Fear of judgment, social stigma, or the hope that things might improve often leads individuals to remain silent. Unfortunately, silence can enable harmful behaviour to continue unchecked.
Reaching out to trusted friends, family members, counsellors, or legal authorities can provide much-needed support and perspective. Opening up is not a sign of weakness—it is a crucial step toward self-protection and healing.
Incidents like this serve as a stark reminder that a relationship should never become a source of fear, humiliation, or constant emotional pressure. A healthy relationship is built on mutual respect, dignity, and emotional safety.
When these are replaced by distress and suffering, it is important to recognise that something is wrong and to seek help. Awareness of one’s legal rights, combined with the courage to speak up, can play a vital role in preventing such tragedies and safeguarding personal well-being.
(The views expressed are solely those of the author.)
