Supreme Court Raises Woman’s Maintenance to ₹25,000, Prioritises Spousal Duty

The Supreme Court of India increased a woman’s monthly maintenance from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, ruling that a husband’s loan repayments cannot override his legal duty to support his spouse.

A bench led by Sanjay Karol held that financial commitments for asset creation are voluntary and cannot reduce maintenance liability. The court noted the husband’s stable income and the wife’s lack of earnings, stressing that maintenance must be fair and ensure a dignified life.

It directed payment of arrears within three months and monthly payments by the 7th of each month.