Indian courts interpret 'harassment' and 'cruelty' in marital disputes broadly, focusing on both physical and mental harm. 'Cruelty' under the law includes any wilful conduct likely to drive a spouse to suicide or to cause grave injury to life, limb, or health (physical or mental), as well as harassment aimed at coercing unlawful demands like dowry. Courts recognize that cruelty is not limited to physical abuse but also encompasses persistent emotional or psychological torment, such as false allegations, verbal abuse, or social humiliation. The impact on the victim’s mental well-being and the pattern of conduct are key factors, with isolated incidents rarely sufficing—consistent, intolerable behavior is usually required to establish cruelty. Harassment is often linked to dowry demands but can include any coercive or degrading conduct that causes distress. Courts also caution against misuse of these provisions for personal vendetta, emphasizing that allegations must be genuine and substantiated