Delhi High Court Rejects Wife’s Maintenance Plea Under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1996

The Delhi High Court dismissed a wife’s appeal seeking maintenance under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1996, after the Family Court had denied her relief.

The Court noted the wife was a retired senior teacher living with her two adult sons. In contrast, the husband, aged over 70, was unfit for work and deprived of post-retirement benefits.

The Court held that Section 24 is intended to prevent procedural disadvantage during litigation, not to impose undue financial burden.

The Court said maintenance under Section 24 is discretionary, and depends on both parties' financial situations.

[Yashwani Verma v Virender Verma]