Wife's Financial Independence No Bar To Grant Alimony If It's Necessary To Secure Dignity & Social Standing Post-Divorce: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court observed that maintenance can be granted despite the financial independence of a party if it is necessary to secure dignity, social standing, and financial stability post- divorce, especially in cases where the marriage has subsisted for a long period. However, considering the dynamics of their separation and the financial burdens the appellant may have borne during the protracted litigation, the Court thought it fit to award the sum "to secure her financial independence and ensure that she can lead her life with dignity." "The financial independence of a party does not preclude the High Court from granting maintenance if it is necessary to secure dignity, social standing, and financial stability post-divorce, especially in cases where the marriage has subsisted for a long period." Also from the judgment- Marriage Built On Mutual Trust, Companionship; When These Missing, Marital Bond Becomes Mere Legal Formality : Supreme Court Case : Amutha v. AR Subramanian Citation: 2024 LiveLaw 1030 Related - Ex-Husband Can't Be Expected To Maintain Ex-Wife As Per His Present Status All Life; Alimony Not To Equalise Wealth : Supreme Court