the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment on 04.11.2020. The Court clarified that:
Key Points:
- A wife can claim maintenance under various laws.
- However, ordering a husband to pay maintenance in multiple proceedings is unjustified if relief has already been granted in one proceeding.
- Multiple maintenance orders cannot be passed simultaneously.
- The court considers the wife’s financial status, husband’s income, and other circumstances to determine the maintenance amount.
Relevant Laws:
- Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
- Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986
- Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
- Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 (Section 125)
Summary:
The Supreme Court’s judgment provides clarity on maintenance laws, ensuring that:
- Wives can claim maintenance under various laws.
- Husbands are not required to pay multiple maintenance orders simultaneously.
- Courts consider individual circumstances to determine maintenance amounts.
This judgment makes court decisions in maintenance cases more transparent and just, protecting the rights of both wives and husbands.