New Delhi, August 5, 2025 — In a watershed decision on matrimonial alimony, the Supreme Court of India has brought closure to a widely-discussed legal battle, where an MBA-qualified woman demanded ₹12 crore, a luxury flat in Mumbai, and a BMW as part of her maintenance claims following the breakdown of her 18-month marriage.
Case Background
- Marriage Duration: 18 months.
- Alimony Demand: ₹12 crore lump sum, premium Mumbai flat, and luxury car.
- Wife’s Profile: MBA, IT professional with notable work experience.
- Husband’s Profile: High-net-worth individual, substantial annual income.
Courtroom Drama and Judges’ Quotes
Chief Justice BR Gavai and the Bench did not mince words when addressing the disproportionate demands and the employability of the wife:
- On Self-Reliance:
“You are so educated. You should earn for yourself and shouldn’t ask for it.” - On Employment Potential:
“You are an IT person. You have done your MBA. You are in demand in Bengaluru, Hyderabad… Why don’t you work also?” - On the Nature of Demands:
“Your marriage lasted only 18 months, and now you also want a BMW? One crore every month?” - On Legal Choices:
“Either you get the flat free of all encumbrance or take the 4 crores and find a good job.” - On Allegations Over Proceedings:
“Influenced whom? You better be satisfied with the flat or take the 4 crores and find a good job.”
The Resolution
The Supreme Court, after reviewing the financial details and arguments from both sides, offered a clear settlement:
- Option 1: Accept the Mumbai flat, free of legal complications.
- Option 2: Take a one-time payment of ₹4 crore.
The Bench also addressed the wife’s employment concerns due to FIRs, promising to quash proceedings if justified:
“You file the FIR, we will cancel that too. We will direct that no party will initiate any criminal proceedings against each other.”
Legal Implications
This decision is likely to be a reference point in future matrimonial disputes, reiterating that:
- Well-qualified individuals are expected to be self-reliant.
- Alimony is for ensuring a basic standard of living, not excessive enrichment.
- The judiciary values fairness and dignity for both parties, discouraging unrealistic demands.
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