What did SC tell the 'qualified IT professional' who wanted crores in alimony after just 1.5 years of marriage?
The Court's response was firm: "You're educated, earn yourself."
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As reported by Bar and Bench, the woman, a qualified IT professional with an MBA degree, had sought extravagant interim maintenance from her estranged husband, who she claimed was wealthy and had filed for annulment citing mental health issues, including schizophrenia.
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Her demands included:
Rs 12 crore in alimony
A BMW luxury car
A high-end flat in Mumbai
The matter was taken up by a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai, Justice K Vinod Chandran, and Justice NV Anjaria.
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CJI: 'Why don't you work?'
During the hearing, CJI Gavai questioned the fairness of the woman's expectations considering her background. He said, as quoted by
NDTV
: 'You're an IT person. You've done your MBA. You're in demand in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad... Why don't you work?'
Highlighting that the marriage lasted only 18 months, the CJI further remarked (via Bar and Bench): 'It lasted just 18 months. And you are seeking a crore a month?'
The Court viewed the demand as excessive and stressed that maintenance is not a substitute for self-reliance.
The Court's Verdict: Dignity Over Dependence
The Court offered the woman two options: Accept the luxury apartment without legal entanglements, or Opt for a one-time settlement of Rs 4 crore
The Bench reiterated its stance with a powerful closing note: 'You are well-educated. You should not be depending on handouts. You should earn and live with dignity.'
This case echoes a series of recent judgements where Indian courts clarified that maintenance laws are for support, not entitlement: In March 2025, the Delhi High Court ruled that Section 125 of CrPC is meant to protect, not reward, individuals who avoid work despite being qualified. The court said: 'A well-educated wife with ability and past work experience should not remain idle solely to claim maintenance.'
In December 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that alimony cannot be claimed merely to match the husband's wealth. The Court said a husband is not obligated to maintain his ex-wife as per his rising financial status after separation.
The Supreme Court's latest observation sends a powerful message: Education and skills are empowerment tools, and the law encourages individuals, especially women, to use them.
Inputs from TOI
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