In Brief
In this criminal appeal arising from a matrimonial dispute, the Supreme Court addressed the law of maintenance under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, Section 125. The case involved an application for interim maintenance and enhancement of maintenance for a son. The Court held that maintenance laws are essential social justice measures to prevent dependent wives and children from destitution. The judgment noted significant inconsistency across Indian Family Courts regarding the date from which maintenance should be awarded—whether from the date of application, the date of the order, or the date summons was served. The Court framed guidelines to establish uniform practice in matrimonial maintenance matters across the country.
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