Court Can Grant Maintenance to Wife Exceeding Claimed Amount: Orissa High Court

The Orissa High Court increased the maintenance awarded to a wife under Section 25 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, after she appealed against the lower court’s decision.

The petitioner sought an enhancement, arguing that her husband’s financial condition had improved and the initial amount was insufficient to meet her expenses.

The Court held that maintenance must be fair and reasonable, considering the husband’s income and the wife’s standard of living.

It directed an increase in the maintenance amount, emphasizing that the husband is legally obligated to support his wife even after divorce.

The judgment clarifies the scope of permanent alimony and maintenance under Section 25 of the Act.