SC Questions ₹12 Crore Alimony Demand After 18-Month Marriage: CJI Says ‘Women Should Be Self-Reliant’

India

SC Questions ₹12 Crore Alimony Demand After 18-Month Marriage: CJI Says ‘Women Should Be Self-Reliant’

The Supreme Court of India on 21 July 2025 made strong observations while hearing a high-profile divorce case where a woman demanded ₹12 crore alimony, a luxury BMW car, and a premium Mumbai flat after just 18 months of marriage.

What’s the Case?

The dispute began in 2024 when the husband, a former Citibank manager turned businessman, filed for divorce. Initially, the wife—an IT professional with an MBA—agreed to settle for a Mumbai flat. Later, she revised her demand to include ₹12 crore, a BMW, and a luxury apartment.

When talks collapsed, the wife filed domestic violence and cruelty charges. The Bombay High Court refused to quash the FIR, leading the husband to approach the Supreme Court.

What Did the Supreme Court Say?

Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, along with Justices Vinod Chandran and N.V. Anjaria, questioned the excessive demand:
“The marriage lasted 18 months, and you seek ₹12 crore—₹1 crore per month? You are highly qualified. Why not work in Bengaluru or Hyderabad?”

CJI added, “Women should not rely entirely on interim alimony. They must earn their own living.”

The court offered two options:

  • Accept a flat in Mumbai, or
  • Take a lump sum of ₹4 crore and seek employment.

The verdict is reserved.

How Is Alimony Decided?

Under Hindu Marriage Act and CrPC Section 125, maintenance depends on:

  • Income of both spouses
  • Standard of living
  • Marriage duration
  • Employability of wife
    No fixed cap exists; courts decide case-by-case.

Impact of SC Remarks

Experts say this observation could discourage inflated demands and encourage self-reliance among educated women. It aligns with earlier rulings where alimony was denied to wives who were qualified and employable.

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