In Brief
A woman deserted by her husband and their minor daughter sought enhanced maintenance. The husband, a BSNL officer, was originally ordered to pay Rs. 10,000 per month by the High Court. The Supreme Court found this inadequate given his substantial pension after retirement and the significant unpaid arrears. The Court enhanced maintenance to Rs. 20,000 per month and directed the Family Court to quantify total arrears and fix a payment schedule ensuring combined monthly obligations (regular maintenance plus arrear instalments) do not exceed 50% of his pension. Direct bank credit was mandated to ensure compliance.
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