SC Rebuked Woman Over Demands For 12 Crore Alimony And Other Luxury Demands

In a high-profile case related to marital dispute, the Supreme Court of India strongly criticized the wife for demanding what deemed to be excessive financial demands from her husband. The complainant had approached the Apex Court seeking a luxury apartment in Mumbai, amount of ₹12 crore as maintenance, a BMW as part of settlement from her husband.

Demands by the Wife:-

• The wife appealed that she be provided a flat in the Kalpaturu complex, in Mumbai which is known for its luxury residences, the demanded prompted criticism from the Bench. “But that house is in Kalpataru, which is one of the top builders. You are asking for something even people with means would hesitate to demand,” the Chief Justice observed.

• The CJI encouraged the wife to consider for employment opportunities in cities with strong IT sectors such as Bengaluru, hyderabad, etc. “You have done your MBA. You are in demand. Why don’t you work?” he asked.

Explanation by the Wife:-

• Explaining her demands, the wife told the Court that her husband, who was previously employed by the Citibank as manager, is now running two businesses, had forced her to quit her job after they married and later abandoned her in an unfair manner. 

• “He is very rich. He sought annulment saying I’m schizophrenic. Do I look schizophrenic, my lords?” she asked.

• Emphasising the financial disparity between the couple, the wife stressed that the wealth of her husband which entitles her to the luxury lifestyle she demanded.

Observation of the Court:-"Extravagant and Unreasonable" demands:-

• Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who was heading the bench, directly expressed his disapproval to the demands made by wife against her husband. “You were married for just 18 months. And you also want a BMW?” he pointed out.
• The Court further expressed that the wife was well-educated, holding an MBA degree and had worked in the IT sector prior to the marriage. Considering her qualifications, the Apex Court urged the wife to continue her job and become financially independent rather than depending upon excessive support from her husband. 
• “Aap itni padi likhi hai. Aapko khudko maangna nahi chahiye, aur khud kama ke khana chahiye,” the Chief Justice expressed.
• Tax returns of the husband were also reviewed by the Court, also his legal team pointed out the decline in his income, after he resigned from the Citibank, stressing that the demands made by the wife were unrealistic.
• The Court finally ordered a settlement amount of nearly ₹4 crore, and advised the wife to focus on rebuilding her career.

Conclusion:
To Conclude, the case points out the changes in the stance of the judiciary in cases related to marital disputes, especially in cases where the partner demanding the alimony is capable of earning. The judgement underlines the importance of self-reliance as well as  balanced expectations in the modern marital settlements.

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