Supreme Court Upholds Dignified Maintenance for Spouses

The Supreme Court emphasizes that a husband's duty to maintain his wife is a primary obligation, ensuring her dignity. Maintenance must be fair and reflect the couple's status. In a recent case, maintenance was increased from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 to support the wife's dignified living.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court underscored that a husband's duty to maintain his wife is not illusory, but a primary obligation. This responsibility must be fulfilled to ensure the wife lives with dignity, reflecting the couple's status.

A bench comprising Justices Sanjay Karol and Augustine George Masih highlighted that maintenance should be fair and reasonable, aligned with the parties' financial capacity. The court clarified that maintenance should allow the wife to live in a standard consistent with her marital life.

The decision came during a case where maintenance was adjusted from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 monthly, recognizing the need for equitable support. The couple, married in May 2023, faced marital discord leading to separate living arrangements.

(With inputs from agencies.)