Meghalaya High Court Quashes Assault Case Following Family Settlement

Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has officially quashed criminal proceedings against a man accused of assaulting his father-in-law with a screwdriver. Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere issued the order on June 17, following a joint petition from the accused, Ulrich Jordan Mawlong, and his relatives, Dondor and George Jarain.

The legal case originated from a family quarrel on January 24, 2024, at their residence. Police initially charged Mawlong under Section 118(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, after George Jarain suffered a lacerated hand wound. The case was previously pending before the Judicial Magistrate First Class in Shillong.

The family members later resolved their differences and signed a formal Deed of Settlement to move past the incident. During a video conference, both the complainant and the injured party confirmed their desire to drop the charges. They explicitly reiterated their consent to quash the proceeding before the court.

Chief Justice Dere noted the simple nature of the injury and the importance of preserving family harmony. In her ruling, she stated, "Considering the nature of dispute, the relationship between the parties and the amicable settlement between them, there is no impediment in allowing the petition." The court's decision effectively closes the criminal case and sets aside the pending FIR.