Supreme Court Grants Divorce in Long-Standing Marital Dispute, Orders Rs 25 Lakh Alimony

INTRODUCTION 

In a significant ruling on marital discord and evidence evaluation, the Supreme Court of India has granted divorce to a couple married over two decades ago, while directing the husband to pay a one-time alimony of Rs 25 Lakh to his former wife. The case, which highlights issues of desertion, eviction claims, and overlooked evidence in lower courts, underscores the importance of thorough judicial scrutiny in family law matters.

BACKGROUND OF THE CASE 

The couple, whose identities remain undisclosed in public records to protect privacy, tied the knot on May 27, 1999. Shortly after their marriage, they relocated to Assam, where the husband secured employment. However, marital bliss was short-lived. According to court documents, the husband alleged that his wife deserted him in November 1999, abandoning the matrimonial home without justification. In contrast, the wife maintained that she was forcibly evicted from the residence by her husband, painting a picture of domestic strife that escalated rapidly within months of their union.

The dispute first reached the trial court, where initial proceedings favored one party's narrative. However, upon appeal, the High Court intervened, criticizing the trial court's handling of the case. The High Court noted that crucial evidence had been overlooked, including the wife's caste certificate and other documents that affirmed her Hindu identity—elements potentially vital to establishing cultural and legal contexts in the divorce petition. Deeming this a procedural lapse, the High Court remanded the matter back to the trial court for fresh reconsideration, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive evaluation of all presented materials.

OBSERVATIONS MADE BY SUPREME COURT 

Unsatisfied with the remand order, an appeal was subsequently filed before the Supreme Court. After reviewing the arguments, timelines, and evidence from both sides, the apex court delivered its verdict. Acknowledging the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, the Supreme Court dissolved the union through divorce. To ensure financial security for the wife, who had endured prolonged litigation, the court mandated a lump-sum payment of Rs 25 lakh from the husband. This amount is intended to serve as permanent alimony, closing the chapter on financial obligations post-divorce.

CONCLUSION 

Legal experts view this decision as a balanced approach, reinforcing the judiciary's role in addressing evidentiary oversights while providing equitable relief in cases of marital dissolution. "The Supreme Court's intervention highlights how lower courts must meticulously examine all documents, especially those pertaining to identity and background, which can influence the outcome," said family law advocate Priya Mehta in a statement to the press.

This case adds to the growing jurisprudence on desertion and cruelty in Indian matrimonial law, where claims of abandonment often intersect with allegations of mistreatment. With the divorce now finalized, both parties can move forward, though the ruling serves as a reminder of the emotional and financial toll of such disputes.