Punjab & Haryana HC: Second Wife Named as Nominee Can Claim Compassionate Job After Husband’s Death

The Punjab & Haryana High Court has ruled that a second wife declared as nominee in service records is entitled to a compassionate appointment, even if the first marriage was not legally dissolved.

The Court noted that although a Panchayati divorce holds no legal weight under the Hindu Marriage Act, the second wife and her children were fully dependent on the deceased and lived with him for 23 years.

With reference to Vidyadhari v. Sukhrana Bai and Sections 15 of the Hindu Marriage Act, along with nominee provisions in service law, the Court directed her appointment. The next hearing is scheduled for July 12, 2025.