In Brief
In this matrimonial dispute spanning over two decades, a couple married in 1998 separated in 2004 with one son. After the husband withdrew his divorce petition, he challenged enhanced maintenance awards in the Supreme Court. The 2-Judge Bench held that Family Courts retain jurisdiction under Sections 24 and 26 of the Hindu Marriage Act even after withdrawal of divorce. Dissolution of the marriage was granted under Article 142, finding irretrievable breakdown. The husband, a senior banker with significant assets, was directed to pay ₹5 crores as permanent alimony to the wife and ₹1 crore for the son's maintenance and higher education within four months, ensuring financial security without penalizing the husband.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.