The controversial ruling once again shines a spotlight on the issue of marital rape in India, which refuses to criminalise it.

Summary

An Indian court acquitted a man convicted of raping his wife, who later died, citing that marital rape is not a crime in India.

The ruling has sparked outrage, renewing calls to criminalize marital rape. Activists argue the decision is legally valid but morally unacceptable.

India’s outdated laws do not recognize non-consensual sex within marriage as rape.

Despite widespread domestic violence, resistance from the government and conservative groups has stalled reform efforts.