New Delhi: In a sharp observation during an alimony hearing, Chief Justice of India BR Gavai told a highly qualified woman that she should work and earn her livelihood instead of seeking interim maintenance from her husband.
The remark came on Tuesday during the hearing of a case where the woman demanded a house in Mumbai and ₹12 crore as maintenance, just 18 months after marriage.
CJI Gavai pointed out the woman’s qualifications and said, “Aap itni padi likhi hai. Aapko khudko mangna nahi chahiye aur khudko kama ke khana chahiye.” (“You are so educated. You should not ask for money. You should earn and live independently.”)
The woman is an IT professional with an MBA degree. The CJI added that skilled professionals like her are in demand in Bengaluru and Hyderabad and asked, “Why don’t you work also?”
The woman’s alimony demand included a house in Mumbai, a BMW car, and ₹12 crore as financial maintenance. The marriage had lasted only 18 months before the couple separated.
The woman’s husband has moved the court to annul the marriage, alleging that she suffers from schizophrenia. He has also claimed that she was aware of her condition but hid it before marriage.
The CJI’s remark highlights the changing judicial approach toward interim maintenance, especially when the spouse is financially and professionally capable. The Court emphasized that education and employability should be taken into account while deciding alimony claims.
Tags: #SupremeCourt #AlimonyCase #CJIComments #WomensRights #MarriageDisputes #IndianLaw
