Sali’ not always an insult, rules Himachal High Court in unique neighbour dispute
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source internet
Shimla, Oct 30
In a unique human-interest litigation between two neighbours, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has made an intelligent ruling on how common colloquial words in Hindi—like “sali” (used for one’s wife’s sister or sister-in-law)—can become abusive, offensive, and even unlawful depending on context.
Justice Rakesh Kainthla observed that while the word “sali” is not inherently derogatory, its use in a filthy or provocative manner can constitute an insult. However, the Court clarified that such usage, though indecent, does not amount to “intentional insult” under Section 504 of the IPC unless it provokes or is likely to provoke a breach of peace.
The judgment came in a revision plea filed by Lekh Ram and his wife Meena Devi, accused of locking their neighbour, Reeta Kumari, inside a room after a dispute over a fallen wall between their properties in Mandi district. The police later rescued the woman, and the key produced by Meena Devi confirmed the act of confinement.
While the High Court upheld the couple’s conviction under Section 342 IPC for wrongful confinement, it set aside their conviction under Section 504 IPC, noting that mere use of the word “sali”—however filthy in tone—did not amount to an intentional provocation to disturb peace.
Justice Kainthla concluded that though social quarrels often carry cultural insults, “law steps in only when the abuse crosses the line into criminal provocation.”
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