Private Electronic Communications Admissible In Matrimonial Cases: Chhattisgarh High Court

The Chhattisgarh High Court has ruled that private electronic communications, including WhatsApp chats and call recordings, can be admitted as evidence in matrimonial disputes, underscoring the need to balance privacy rights with the requirements of a fair trial.

The observation came during the hearing of a complex marital dispute by a bench of Justice Sachin Singh Rajput. The court examined the admissibility of electronic evidence in cases involving marital conflict, where such communications often form a crucial part of the factual record.

Justice Rajput noted that while the right to privacy is a fundamental right, it is not absolute and must be weighed against the competing need to ensure justice. The court said that in matrimonial matters, relevant electronic material may be considered if it helps establish the truth and supports fair adjudication.

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The ruling is significant in the context of increasing reliance on digital communication in personal relationships. Courts across India have increasingly been confronted with questions about whether private chats, messages and recordings can be used in legal proceedings.

Legal experts say the order reinforces the principle that admissibility will depend on relevance, authenticity and lawful procurement of the evidence. The decision is expected to guide lower courts dealing with similar matrimonial disputes involving electronic records.

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