During a hearing on a divorce plea, the Supreme Court questioned a husband’s claim that he could not afford Rs 12,000 per month as maintenance for his wife, earning only Rs 325 per day as a daily wager. The man said he managed to earn around Rs 9,000 per month despite working tirelessly, making the maintenance claim difficult.
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta expressed disbelief, observing that it was hard to accept anyone earns so little today. They questioned the credibility of the husband’s employer, Hindustan Auto Agency, and suggested summoning the company, noting that such low wages seemed unlikely.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The husband’s counsel, George Pothan, defended his client, offering to file an affidavit confirming the daily income. The bench, however, called the claim “impossible,” stating that if the husband could not pay, he should keep his wife with him so she could support herself, the children, and him.
Justice Mehta emphasised that arranging maintenance was the husband’s responsibility, urging him to find means, even by borrowing or seeking help. The lawyer noted that summoning the company might also benefit other employees.
Earlier, the lower court granted divorce on Rs 6 lakh payment. Dissatisfied, the wife approached the High Court and Supreme Court, seeking enhancement to either Rs 12,000 per month for life with annual increments or a lump-sum payment.
