What is Section 498A of IPC? Here is the text of Section 498A IPC as mentioned in the Indian Penal Code: Husband of a woman or a relative of the husband subjects her to cruelty - Whoever, being the husband of a woman or a relative of the husband of a woman, subjects such woman to cruelty, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years. Fine will also have to be paid. Benefits of Section 498A of IPC Prevents exploitation of women: Exploitation of women has always been a serious issue over the years. A major advantage of starting this section is to save women from exploitation. If a woman is being subjected to cruelty as mentioned in the section, it will be treated as a punishable offence. And whoever does cruelty to him will be punished with imprisonment for three years or will have to pay a fine.