A recent Delhi High Court observation stated that a mere demand for dowry is not an offence under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and vague allegations of intimidation are not harassment. It noted that the relatives were roped in owing to the general tendency in matrimonial dispute cases to rope in all family members even if they have no connection with the complainant. The High Court ruled that relatives had no case to answer and that further proceedings would be an abuse of legal process. The ruling reiterates the need for blood or concrete proof while making allegations under Section 498A, especially when distant relatives do not form part of the household of the couple.