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The Supreme Court recently clarified when official superiors can be held liable for the abetment of an employee's suicide. The bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra categorized such cases into two broad scenarios: one where the deceased shared sentimental ties with the accused, and the other where the relationship was purely professional.
In cases involving sentimental or personal relationships, the court noted that quarrels or emotional disputes could sometimes lead to a psychological imbalance that tempts a person to commit suicide. Such cases typically involve relationships like those between spouses, family members, or other emotionally connected individuals. The court acknowledged that these situations often carry higher emotional expectations, making them more prone to triggering suicidal tendencies.
However, when the relationship is professional, as in the case at hand, the court emphasized that the expectations are limited to discharging duties as per official obligations. The nature of a professional relationship is governed by law, policies, and regulations, with clear expectations outlined. The court made a crucial distinction that workplace disputes or disagreements do not typically result in suicidal tendencies, as the expectations from a professional relationship are lower than in emotionally-driven relationships.
The court was hearing an appeal where the relatives of a deceased employee alleged that the employee’s superiors harassed him, leading to his suicide. The court quashed the criminal case against the superiors under Section 306 of the IPC, stating that mere harassment and humiliation at the workplace do not constitute abetment to suicide unless there is material evidence showing an intent to provoke suicide.
In conclusion, the court ruled that without intent or evidence linking the actions of the superiors to the employee’s suicide, they cannot be held liable under Section 306 of the IPC.
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