Drinking Without Wife's Consent: Fact vs. Viral Claim on New Law

• A viral social media claim suggests husbands face 3 years jail for drinking without wife's consent under a new law.
• The claim links to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, Section 85 (upgraded IPC 498A), effective July 1, 2024.
• The law actually penalizes husbands who cause physical or mental cruelty, disturbances, or risk safety/dignity while under alcohol's influence.
• Mere alcohol consumption is not an offense; cruelty or harassment under its influence is required for legal action.
• The provision aims to curb domestic violence, with government noting alcohol's role in 40% of such cases.

Why It Matters: New law targets cruelty under alcohol influence, not just drinking without consent.