Searching Case Laws & Precedent on Legal Query.....!
Analysing the retrieved Case Laws
Scanned Judgements…!
Searching Case Laws & Precedent on Legal Query.....!
Analysing the retrieved Case Laws
Scanned Judgements…!
Calculation and Conditions for Permanent Alimony - Under Section 25 of HMA, 1955, permanent alimony can only be claimed after the conclusion of litigation that results in the disruption of marital status. It is available to both spouses irrespective of gender. The claim arises only when the court's decree or order has affected or disrupted the marital status, signifying the end of the marriage or legal separation. ["2023 0 Supreme(Del) 12279"] It is only when the marital status is affected or disrupted by the Court under HMA, 1955 that the claim for permanent alimony can be made under Section 25 of HMA, 1955 and if there is no disruption of the status, then the wife has to necessarily claim maintenance under HAMA, 1956.
Timing and Procedure for Claim - Permanent alimony under Section 25 is granted after the litigation is concluded and the marital status is legally disrupted. The act can be invoked for interim maintenance during proceedings, but permanent alimony requires a final order post-litigation. Moreover, the claim must be supported by a formal application, either written or oral, specifically claiming permanent alimony. Without such an application, courts generally do not issue directions for its grant. ["2023 0 Supreme(Del) 12279"] There can either be a separate written application claiming permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act or ... in the absence of such an application, no directions can be issued for permanent alimony.
Modification and Power of Court - Once granted, permanent alimony can be modified or varied by the court under Section 25(2) of HMA, provided there is a change in circumstances of the parties. The court has broad power to vary, modify, or rescind the order based on subsequent developments. This power is exercised to ensure fairness if circumstances change significantly after the initial order. ["2022 Supreme(Online)(MP) 2119"] Since the permanent alimony was passed or awarded in favour of the wife, the same could be modified by the same court by exercising its power under Section 25(2) of HMA.
Legal Requirements and Judicial Practice - Courts emphasize that a formal application under Section 25 is necessary for granting or modifying permanent alimony. Orders based solely on oral submissions or without a specific application are generally not sustainable. The law mandates a clear application process, and courts have consistently held that without a proper application, no directions for permanent alimony can be issued. ["2024 Supreme(Online)(Mp) 34562"] In absence of application preferred under section 25 of H.M. Act, no directions can be issued by this Court for grant of permanent alimony.
Summary - The calculation of permanent alimony under Section 25 of HMA involves a final court order made after the conclusion of litigation that disrupts the marital status. The claimant must file a formal application, and the court's power to modify such orders exists under Section 25(2), contingent upon a change in circumstances. Orders are not based solely on oral claims or without proper procedural compliance. ["2023 0 Supreme(Del) 12279"], ["2022 Supreme(Online)(MP) 2119"], ["2024 Supreme(Online)(Mp) 34562"]
Divorce proceedings in India often bring financial concerns to the forefront, especially regarding spousal support. One common query arises: Calculation of Permanent Alimony under Section 25 of HMA. Understanding this provision can help spouses navigate post-divorce financial stability. This blog explores the nuances of
Section 25 empowers courts to grant permanent alimony and maintenance to either spouse upon divorce or judicial separation. It applies irrespective of gender, though claims are more common from wives. The court may award a lump sum or periodic payments, typically not exceeding the recipient's lifetime. Importantly, orders can be modified if circumstances change materially. 2021 1 Supreme 422 2017 4 Supreme 32
Courts evaluate:- Income and property of both parties.- Conduct of the parties.- Other relevant circumstances.
This discretionary power ensures equitable outcomes, but no rigid formula exists. Each case turns on its facts. 2005 1 Supreme 155 2016 3 Supreme 497
Courts adopt a holistic approach. Here's a breakdown of primary considerations:
The payer's earning capacity is central. For example, in cases where the husband's income was substantial (e.g., Rs. 99,000 gross monthly), courts adjusted alimony accordingly, though netting out liabilities. 2009 0 Supreme(SC) 1104
Alimony aims to sustain a lifestyle akin to the marital period—modest, not luxurious. Courts assess pre-divorce comforts to prevent penury. 2009 0 Supreme(SC) 1104
If the claimant has sufficient income or assets, alimony may be denied or reduced. A qualified spouse capable of earning isn't automatically barred but must show necessity. For instance, a post-graduate wife running a catering business was denied interim
Longer marriages or caregiving roles (e.g., for children or elders) weigh in favor. Expenses for children's education, health, and marriage are factored. In contemporary rulings, short marriages may limit lifetime alimony. 2020 6 Supreme 322
The Supreme Court emphasizes no straitjacket formula; quantum ensures reasonable comfort. 2020 6 Supreme 322
A critical point from precedents: Permanent alimony typically requires a formal claim. Courts have ruled that without a written application under Section 25—either in pleadings or separately—awards can't be made. Oral prayers alone suffice in some views, but many judgments stress documentation. 2024 0 Supreme(MP) 201 2024 Supreme(Online)(MP) 19758 2024 Supreme(Online)(MP) 50406
For example:
Without demanding permanent alimony in written statement or by separate application, trial Court could not have granted permanent alimony. 2024 0 Supreme(MP) 201
No issue framed or evidence on finances? Award unsustainable. Evidence of payer's income, assets, and claimant's needs is essential. 2024 0 Supreme(MP) 201
Post-divorce, Section 25 claims remain viable, distinct from interim relief under Section 24. Overlapping jurisdictions (e.g., CrPC 125, DV Act) allow multiple claims, but courts adjust to avoid double-dipping. Disclose prior awards in subsequent filings. 2023 0 Supreme(Del) 7711 2020 6 Supreme 322 2021 0 Supreme(All) 215
Judicial trends illustrate application:
Rs. 20,000 monthly or Rs. 20 lakhs lump sum: Upheld considering wife's difficulties and parties' finances. 2011 5 Supreme 74
Reduction from Rs. 36.50 lakhs to Rs. 29.50 lakhs: Ensured fairness. 2016 3 Supreme 497
Enhancement under
Child maintenance focus: Rs. 20,000 for a 9-year-old, despite mother's income. 2023 0 Supreme(Del) 7711
Meager award challenged: Rs. 5 lakhs deemed low against husband's Rs. 1 lakh salary. 2021 0 Supreme(Del) 1131
In a Supreme Court guideline case, affidavits of assets/liabilities are mandatory for objective assessment, streamlining delays. 2020 6 Supreme 322
To strengthen a claim:- Compile financial documents (ITRs, bank statements, assets).- Evidence marital lifestyle (photos, bills).- File compliant applications with affidavits.- Highlight future needs and child's welfare.
For payers, demonstrate liabilities and claimant's capacity transparently.
Calculating permanent alimony under Section 25 HMA balances equity, prioritizing financial security without punishment. Courts discretionarily weigh incomes, lifestyles, and needs, guided by precedents stressing fairness and procedure. Key takeaways:- No fixed formula; case-specific.- Written claims and evidence crucial. 2024 0 Supreme(MP) 201- Adjustable for changes; overlaps managed via adjustments. 2020 6 Supreme 322- Focus on reasonable comfort. 2009 0 Supreme(SC) 1104
This overview draws from established rulings but isn't exhaustive. Family laws evolve; seek expert counsel for your case. Stay informed on rights for empowered decisions.
Disclaimer: This post provides general insights based on public judgments and is not legal advice. Laws vary by facts; professional consultation recommended.
#PermanentAlimony, #Section25HMA, #FamilyLawIndia
However, once the divorce is granted, the wife can seek permanent alimony only under Section 25 of HMA, 1955. ... Additionally, the relief of permanent alimony under Section 25 of HMA, 1955 is available to both spouses irrespective of their gender, however, only the wife can seek maintenance from her husband under Section 18 of HAMA, 1956. ... However, the HMA, 1955 can be invoked for interim maintenance during the....
However, once the divorce is granted, the wife can seek permanent alimony only under Section 25 of HMA, 1955. ... January, 2018 was passed under Section 24 of HMA, 1955 in the pending Divorce Petition. 25. ... Additionally, the relief of permanent alimony under Section 25 of HMA, 1955 is available to both spouses irrespective of their gender, however, only the wife can seek maintenanc....
under Section 25(2) of HMA and decide the same in accordance with law. ... Krishna Malhotra 2020 SCC Online SC 239 has held that since the permanent alimony was passed or awarded in favour of the wife, the same could be modified by the same court by exercising its power under Section 25(2) of HMA. ... It is also submitted that there is no specific provision under Section 25(2) of HMA to modify the order of #HL_S....
It is further held that grant of permanent alimony and maintenance under section 25 of the Act is sine-quanon if the prayer made in that regard whether in writing or orally and there can either be a separate written application claiming permanent alimony and maintenance under section 25 of the Act or ... The respondent/wife has not filed any application u/S 25 of the HMA and has not demanded permanent alimony and inspite of that, le....
(A) Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 - Section 25 - Permanent alimony - Appeal against decree granting permanent alimony of Rs.5,00,000/- ... 25 of the Hindu Marriage Act. ... Issues: The main issue was whether the trial court could grant permanent alimony without a written application as required under Section ... Thus, it can be safely held that in absence of application preferred under Section 25 of H.M. Act, no directions can be issued by this Court for grant of permanent....
It is further held that grant of permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act is sine-qua- non if the prayer made in that regard whether in writing or orally and there can either be a separate written application claiming permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act ... The respondent/wife has not filed any application u/S 25 of the HMA and has not demanded permanent alimony and inspite of that, lea....
It is further held that grant of permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act is sine-qua- non if the prayer made in that regard whether in writing or orally and there can either be a separate written application claiming permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act ... The respondent/wife has not filed any application u/S 25 of the HMA and has not demanded permanent alimony and inspite of that, lea....
It is further held that grant of permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act is sine-qua- non if the prayer made in that regard whether in writing or orally and there can either be a separate written application claiming permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act ... The respondent/wife has not filed any application u/S 25 of the HMA and has not demanded permanent alimony and inspite of that, lea....
On 10.11.2010, respondent/wife filed an application under section 25(2) of HMA seeking enhancement of the amount of permanent alimony and vide order dated 10.11.2010 the learned Court has enhanced the maintenance from Rs. 1,200/- to Rs. 4,000/- per month. ... No. 352/2020 under section 19 of the Hindu Marriage Act against the judgment and decree dated 8.1.2020 whereby the Family Court, Ratlam has allowed a petition filed by the respondent /wife under section 25(2) of ....
On 18.04.2018, respondent-Astha Thakur preferred a petition under Section 25 of HM Act bearing HMA No.115 oPf 2018 for grant of permanent alimony and maintenance at the rate of Rs.50,000/- per month and Rs.30,000/- as litigation expenses. ... On account of discord between the parties, respondent- Astha Thakur preferred a petition bearing HMA No.140 of 2016 under Section 13(1)(ia) of HM Act fror dissolution of marriage. ... Irrespective of the ailment alleged to be suffered by the respo....
The submission of learned counsel for the appellant is that the respondent, who was earning Rs.70,000/- per month at the time of marriage, was receiving a salary of Rs. 1 lakh per month when the matter was argued before the Family Court. An amount of Rs. 5 lakhs is meager, considering the aforesaid position. The appellant has also assailed the order under Section 25 of the HMA on the ground that an amount of Rs. 5 lakhs was awarded to her towards permanent alimony.
also provides for maintenance of wife, children and parent in summary proceeding. Once there is a divorce, the wife has to seek relief under Section 25 of HMA. The distinction between maintenance under HMA and HAMA is that the right under Section 18 of HAMA is available during the subsistence of a marriage, without any matrimonial proceeding pending between the parties.
The Supreme Court, while considering the various laws relating to marriage amongst Hindus, discussed the scope of applications under the HMA and HAMA in the following words : (2) In determining the amount of maintenance, if any, to be awarded to a wife, children or aged or infirm parents under this Act, regard shall be had to— (a) the position and status of the parties; (b) the reasonable wants of the claimant; (c) if the claimant is living separately, whether the claimant is justified in doing so; (d) the value of the claimant's property and any income derived from such property, or fro....
Subsequently, another petition under Section 9 of HMA was filed by the respondent/wife on 25.09.2001. Consequently, the said petition filed by the appellant/husband under Section 9 was withdrawn by him on 09.10.2006. A petition under Section 9 of HMA was filed by the appellant/husband on 24.09.2001. A settlement was arrived between the parties whereby appellant/husband agreed to pay a sum of Rs.5,000/- per month to the respondent/wife and she was to join back the matrimonial home, however, she did not join the company of the appellant/husband.
Respondent has also moved an application under section 24 of HMA and an application under section 26 of HMA. Respondent’s right to claim maintenance shall commence from the date complete application in compliance of Kusum Sharma’s judgement is filed along with required documents and copy is given to the opposite side. However, the application under Section 24 of HMA is not accompanied with income and assets affidavit as provided for in Kusum Sharma’s judgment.
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