ISSUE:
Whether the accused can be convicted under Section 306 IPC (abetment of suicide) despite no specific charge being framed under that section?
Whether the conduct of the accused constituted cruelty under Section 498-A IPC based on evidence of harassment and dowry demands?
Whether procedural irregularities, like absence of a charge under Section 306 IPC, invalidate the conviction if no prejudice is caused to the accused?
RULE:
Conviction without a specific charge: A conviction under Section 306 IPC is valid even without a specific charge if the accused had notice of the allegations, a fair opportunity to defend, and no failure of justice occurred.
Cruelty under Section 498-A IPC: Persistent harassment and dowry-related demands leading to mental or physical distress amount to cruelty under Section 498-A IPC, as evidenced by credible testimony and corroborative documents.