Can Husband Claim Maintenance from Wife in Divorce?

As we know divorce is a complex legal process that involves the dissolution of a marriage and the division of assets and responsibilities between the spouses. One crucial aspect of divorce proceedings is the issue of spousal maintenance, which refers to the financial support that one spouse may be required to provide to the other after the marriage ends. Traditionally, it has been more common for husbands to claim maintenance from their wives, but the landscape is changing rapidly, and legal systems around the world are evolving to address gender equality and the changing roles and financial circumstances of spouses. In this informative article, we will explore the question of whether a husband can claim maintenance from his wife in a divorce, examining various factors such as jurisdiction, individual circumstances, and legal considerations that may impact the outcome. By shedding light on this topic, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolving dynamics surrounding spousal maintenance in modern divorce cases.

Maintenance Laws In India

Maintenance laws in India play a vital role in ensuring financial support for individuals going through divorce or separation. These laws aim to provide a gender-neutral approach, recognizing that both husbands and wives may require financial assistance depending on their individual circumstances. In this article, we will explore the relevant laws and acts related to maintenance from a spouse, regardless of gender, in the context of divorce proceedings in India. By examining these legal provisions, we seek to provide an understanding of the framework established to safeguard the financial interests of individuals during and after divorce, irrespective of their gender.

Relevant laws and acts related to maintenance from a spouse in

divorce in India:

1.    The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955: Under this act, provisions are made for maintenance to be claimed by either the husband or the wife. Section 24 allows either spouse to seek temporary maintenance during the pendency of the divorce proceedings, taking into account factors such as the income and financial capacity of both parties.

2.     The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956: This act provides for maintenance to be claimed by wives, children, and dependent parents. Section 18 stipulates that a wife is entitled to be maintained by her husband during their marriage and even after divorce, provided she is unable to support herself financially.

3.    The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973: Section 125 of this code extends the provision for maintenance to individuals irrespective of their religion. Either the husband or the wife can claim maintenance from the other if they are unable to maintain themselves. This section applies to all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.

4.    The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005: This act is aimed at protecting women from various forms of abuse, including economic abuse. It recognizes the right of a woman to claim maintenance from her husband or ex-husband under Section 20, ensuring her financial well-being.

5.   The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986: This act applies to Muslim women and addresses the issue of maintenance after divorce. It entitles a divorced Muslim woman to claim maintenance from her former husband within the iddat period (a specific waiting period after divorce), provided she has not remarried.

Criteria For Eligibility

In the context of divorce, the eligibility criteria for a husband to claim maintenance from his wife may vary depending on the jurisdiction and applicable laws. While traditionally, maintenance claims were more commonly associated with wives, the changing dynamics of gender roles and financial circumstances have led to the recognition that husbands may also require financial support. Here are some general factors that could be considered when determining the eligibility for a husband to claim maintenance from his wife:

1.  Financial Need: The husband must establish that he lacks the means to support himself financially, either due to unemployment, underemployment, or other circumstances that hinder his ability to meet his basic needs.

2.   Income Disparity: The husband should demonstrate a significant income disparity between himself and his wife. This could be due to factors such as differences in earning potential, education, or employment opportunities.

3.   Health and Disability: If the husband has health issues or disabilities that affect his ability to work and earn a livelihood, it may strengthen his case for claiming maintenance from his wife.

4.    Marital Contributions: The husband's contributions to the marriage, both financial and non-financial, are often considered. This includes factors such as sacrificing career opportunities for the family's benefit, supporting the wife's education or career, or taking care of household responsibilities.

5.  Duration of Marriage: The length of the marriage may also be taken into account. Generally, longer marriages tend to have a higher likelihood of maintenance is awarded, as the financial interdependence and shared responsibilities are often more significant.

6.    Ability to Pay: The wife's financial capacity and ability to provide maintenance must be assessed. If she has sufficient income or assets to meet her own needs as well as contribute to her husband's support, it could impact her eligibility for maintenance.

Under What Circumstances Can A Husband Claim Maintenance From His Wife?

In certain circumstances, a husband may be eligible to claim maintenance from his wife during or after divorce. While laws and specific criteria can vary by jurisdiction, here are some common circumstances under which a husband may be able to claim maintenance from his wife:

1.    Economic Disparity: If there is a significant disparity in income and financial resources between the husband and wife, the husband may be able to claim maintenance. This could arise if the wife has a substantially higher earning capacity or greater financial assets compared to the husband.

2.    Unemployment or Underemployment: If the husband is unemployed, unable to find suitable employment, or earning significantly less than his potential, he may be eligible for maintenance from his wife. This situation may arise due to factors such as job loss, disability, or career sacrifices made for the benefit of the family during the marriage.

3.    Health or Disability: If the husband has health issues or a disability that affects his ability to earn a livelihood, he may be entitled to claim maintenance from his wife. The extent of the disability or health condition and its impact on the husband's ability to support himself financially will be considered.

4.    Non-Economic Contributions: If the husband made significant non-financial contributions to the marriage, such as supporting the wife's education, caring for the household and children, or sacrificing career opportunities for the family's benefit, he may have grounds to claim maintenance from his wife.

5.    Marital Duration: The length of the marriage can be a relevant factor. In longer marriages, the financial interdependence and shared responsibilities accumulated over time may increase the likelihood of a husband successfully claiming maintenance from his wife.

6.    Mutual Agreement: If the husband and wife reach a mutual agreement on maintenance during divorce proceedings, they can define the terms and conditions themselves, subject to the court's approval. Such agreements can provide a more flexible and tailored approach to addressing the husband's financial needs.

Factors Considered By The Courts While Determining The Maintenance Amount

1.    Income and Earning Capacity: The court will evaluate the husband's income and earning capacity, including his employment status, educational qualifications, professional skills, and potential for future earnings. This assessment helps determine the husband's financial resources and ability to support himself.

2.    Financial Needs and Obligations: The court will consider the financial needs and obligations of the husband, taking into account factors such as his age, standard of living during the marriage, responsibilities towards children (if any), and existing financial liabilities, such as debts or other support obligations.

3.    Lifestyle and Expenses: The court may examine the lifestyle enjoyed by the husband during the marriage, including expenses related to housing, transportation, healthcare, and other essential needs. The aim is to ensure that the maintenance awarded allows the husband to maintain a reasonably comparable standard of living post-divorce.

4.    Contributions to the Marriage: The court will assess the contributions made by the husband to the marital household and family welfare. This includes both financial contributions, such as income generation and asset acquisition, as well as non-financial contributions, such as caring for children, managing household affairs, or supporting the wife's education or career advancement.

5.    Duration of the Marriage: The length of the marriage is often a relevant factor in determining maintenance. Longer marriages generally entail a greater level of financial interdependence, and the court may consider the duration to ascertain the level of support required by the husband.

6.    Health and Disability: If the husband has health issues or a disability that affects his ability to earn a livelihood, the court will take this into account. The extent of the disability, its impact on the husband's ability to work, and associated medical expenses are considered when determining the maintenance amount.

7.    Ability to Pay: The court will also consider the wife's financial capacity and ability to provide maintenance. If the wife has sufficient income, assets, or earning potential to meet her own needs as well as contribute to the husband's support, this may influence the maintenance amount awarded.

Case Studies And Important Judgments By Courts

In cases where a husband claims maintenance, the burden of proof rests upon him to demonstrate to the court that, due to physical or mental disability, he is incapable of earning and supporting his livelihood. To illustrate, the case of "Kanchan v. Kamalendra, AIR 1993, Bom 493" provides an example where it was determined that the husband, who was not disabled nor mentally ill, could not be granted maintenance solely on the grounds that his business had closed down. In such instances, the husband must present compelling evidence to establish his inability to generate income and sustain his livelihood in order to seek a favorable decision from the court.

In the notable case of Nivya V M v. Shivaprasad M K 2017 (2) KLT 803, the Kerala High Court examined the issue of providing maintenance to a husband. The court emphasized that granting maintenance to a husband in the absence of his incapability to work would encourage idleness. The husband was required to prove that he had a permanent disability preventing him from working and earning a livelihood in order to be eligible for maintenance.

Similarly, in the case of Kamelandra Sawarkar v. Kamelandra AIR 1992 Bom 493, the Bombay High Court ruled that a husband cannot solely rely on the income of his wife. The court noted that if a husband is capable of working and earning, granting maintenance to a skilled individual would only foster idleness.

In the case of Rani Sethi v. Sunil Sethi 179 (2011) DLT 414, the trial court examined the circumstances and facts of the case to determine the husband's entitlement to maintenance. The court concluded that the wife was required to pay maintenance, and directed her to provide the respondent with Rs. 20,000/- as maintenance, Rs. 10,000 as litigation expenses, and a Zen car for his use and convenience.

These cases demonstrate how courts carefully consider the specific circumstances and facts presented to them when determining the eligibility of a husband to claim maintenance from his wife. The decisions emphasize the need for the husband to demonstrate permanent disability or incapability to work and earn a livelihood, while also considering the financial implications and potential for idleness in the given situations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the dynamics surrounding spousal maintenance in divorce cases are evolving rapidly, with greater recognition of the financial needs of both husbands and wives. While historically it has been more common for husbands to claim maintenance from their wives, legal systems worldwide are embracing a gender-neutral approach and considering the individual circumstances of the parties involved. In India, specific laws and acts have been enacted to ensure financial support for individuals, irrespective of their gender, during and after divorce. 

Author Bio: Adv. Ramit Sehrawat 

He is a practicing lawyer at Delhi High Court,  with 16+ years of experience. He is a consultant and practices in the area of Criminal matters, Cheque Bounce Matters, Divorce Matters, Family Matters, Property Matters, Recovery Matters, Child Custody Matters, and drafting and vetting of various agreements and documents. He is a passionate Counsel providing services in Litigation and Legal Compliance/Advisory to his clients in diverse areas of law.