Delhi High Court Affirms Maintenance Rights for Abandoned Wife

The Delhi High Court ruled that a husband must provide maintenance to his estranged wife and children, even if the wife can earn a livelihood. The court termed calling her a 'parasite' as insulting and acknowledged that many Indian women leave their jobs for family care, facing abuse and neglect in return.

The Delhi High Court has asserted that a husband's obligation to support his estranged wife and children is not negated by the wife's ability to earn a livelihood. In a landmark ruling, the court underscored the insult in labeling such women as 'parasites'.

This verdict came in response to a plea from a husband challenging a lower court's decision to grant maintenance to his wife. The court recognized that numerous Indian women leave their professional careers to cater to familial responsibilities, a sacrifice often met with neglect and abuse.

The court maintained the husband's obligation to pay Rs 30,000 per month and an additional Rs 5 lakh for the 'injuries' inflicted on his wife, including emotional distress. It stated that sections of the Hindu Marriage Act, Criminal Procedure Code, and Domestic Violence Act are tools of social justice safeguarding women and children from destitution.

(With inputs from agencies.)