#marital relationship

Patna High Court rules that a wife cannot be held criminally liable under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act solely based on her marital relationship with the primary accused. The court emphasized the necessity of independent evidence of involvement to justify arrest or prosecution, reinforcing procedural safeguards against arbitrary accusations.

Madras High Court rules that a legally wedded spouse remains a legal heir despite separation or cohabitation allegations, unless the marriage is formally dissolved by a court decree. The judgment underscores that administrative authorities cannot disqualify a spouse from heirship rights based on separation alone, remanding the case for fresh hearing with notice to all parties.