Bengaluru: A nine-month pregnant woman has lodged a complaint against her husband and in-laws in Bengaluru, alleging prolonged mental and physical cruelty, including assault during her pregnancy.

The complainant, Jyothi Pandey (34), approached the South Women Police Station after undergoing family counselling through a women’s helpline. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the allegations.

Marriage and initial years

According to the complaint, Jyothi married Anuraga Pandey in 2017 in Banaras, Uttar Pradesh. After the wedding, she moved to Bengaluru, where her husband was employed.

In her statement, she said that the initial four years of marriage were cordial and that her husband took good care of her. However, she alleged that problems began when she became pregnant for the first time.

Allegations of suspicion and harassment

Jyothi alleged that during her first pregnancy, her husband began suspecting her character without any basis and subjected her to mental and physical harassment. She stated that despite the birth of their first child, the alleged ill-treatment continued intermittently.

The FIR states that between 2021 and 2025, she was repeatedly subjected to cruelty by her husband. She further alleged that while the family was staying in Tamil Nadu for a period, both her husband and in-laws fought with her and physically assaulted her.

According to her complaint, the harassment escalated during her second pregnancy. She claimed that her husband once again questioned her fidelity, assaulted her and allegedly threw her out of the house.

Alleged assault during advanced pregnancy

In a particularly serious allegation, Jyothi stated that she was subjected to mental and physical torture even when she was nine months pregnant, without regard for her health or safety. Following these incidents, she temporarily moved to her mother’s house.

She later returned to Bengaluru but decided to approach the authorities after the alleged harassment persisted. Police said she first sought assistance through a women’s helpline and underwent counselling before filing a formal complaint.

Police investigation under way

Officials at the South Women Police Station confirmed that a case has been registered against her husband and in-laws under relevant provisions pertaining to cruelty and assault. Statements are being recorded, and further inquiry is under way.

Police sources indicated that they will examine medical records, counselling reports and other supporting documents as part of the investigation. The accused are expected to be questioned in connection with the allegations.

Authorities emphasised that complaints involving domestic violence, especially during pregnancy, are treated with seriousness due to the potential risk to both mother and unborn child.

Growing awareness on domestic violence

The case once again highlights concerns surrounding domestic violence and the vulnerability of women during pregnancy. Legal experts point out that Indian law provides specific protections against cruelty by a husband or relatives, and police are mandated to act on such complaints.

Women’s rights advocates have urged victims of domestic abuse to seek help through helplines, counselling centres and police stations without delay. Officials reiterated that support systems are in place to provide legal guidance and protective measures for those facing harassment.

As the investigation proceeds, police said appropriate legal action will be taken based on the evidence gathered. The complainant has sought strict action against her husband and in-laws for the alleged cruelty and assault.