Permanent alimony of Rs 500 crore sought by wife from US based husband; SC grants Rs 12 crore and warns against misuse of 498A
alimony case, domestic violence and divorce petition, all of them. The wife even filed an FIR against his 85-year-old father, his son from first marriage, his aunt's son, his relatives and his ex-wife who lives in the USA.
There was also a twist in this case as the lawyer representing the wife said she wanted to get back with him. However, the husband declined this offer and sought divorce on the ground of cruelty. Moreover, the husband filed a police complaint against his wife claiming that she threatened him with dire consequences like taking her own life and filing false criminal cases against him and his family.
The primary reason behind the long police, family court, supreme court proceedings was demand for more alimony by wife after taking Rs 12 lakh from her husband during the course of their married life. This was despite his wife having Rs 1.05 crore worth of bank FDs, cash, etc. His wife argued that he had both the means and ability to provide more alimony. She also claimed that her husband had Rs 5,000 crore worth of assets, a USA based business and multiple house properties in Pune, Bhopal and in other cities. While the husband was ready to offer Rs 20 to 40 lakh as permanent alimony, his wife demanded at least Rs 500 crore and one of the properties owned by the husband's 85-year-old father.
Coming just after the shocking suicide by Atul Subhash, this case again highlighted how rising marital disputes are becoming prolonged legal battle not only husband and wife but also involves many family members.
