In Brief
A wife appealed against a High Court order granting her husband a divorce on grounds of desertion, arguing the appeal was heard ex-parte without her presence. The Supreme Court found the marriage had irretrievably broken down due to incompatibility and emotional disconnection after over a decade of separation. Although the procedural defect warranted remand, both parties agreed to settle. The Court invoked Article 142 to dissolve the marriage and disposed of all pending litigation between them. The husband was directed to pay Rs. 35 lakhs as permanent alimony and for medical expenses, ensuring the dependent wife's financial security.
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