The Chhattisgarh High Court has delivered a significant ruling stating that a woman who chooses to live separately from her husband and in-laws without valid and sufficient reason is not entitled to a maintenance allowance. This decision upholds an earlier order from the Bilaspur family court, reinforcing legal standards in matrimonial disputes.
Court Upholds Family Court Order
The judgment was issued on January 27, following a petition filed by the wife of a Bilaspur resident. She had challenged the family court's order that refused her maintenance, arguing against its validity. However, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha found no grounds for interference, stating that the family court's order showed no illegality or defect.
Key Factors in the Decision
The High Court noted a critical aspect of the case: when the husband filed a petition seeking restitution of conjugal rights, the woman had the opportunity to return to her matrimonial home to resume marital life. Her failure to do so was deemed a significant factor in denying her claim for maintenance. The court emphasized that in such circumstances, where separation occurs without just cause, entitlement to financial support is not automatic.
Allegations of Harassment and Dowry Demands
In her defense, the woman alleged severe harassment by her husband and his family members. She claimed that just four days after marriage, she was asked to bring a car and Rs 10 lakh, and was subjected to verbal, physical, and mental cruelty, including assault. Despite these allegations, the court's ruling focused on the procedural aspect of her separation and the legal requirements for maintenance claims.
This case highlights the complex interplay between allegations of domestic abuse and legal entitlements in matrimonial disputes, setting a precedent for future rulings in similar situations.
