Contested Divorce In India : Complete Guide

A contested divorce in India, also called a one-sided divorce, occurs when one spouse wishes to unilaterally end the marriage while the other spouse opposes the divorce or contests some of the significant issues, such as alimony, child custody, or property division. Unlike a mutual consent divorce, in a contested divorce, legal intervention is required to resolve the contentious conflicts before a formal separation can be granted.

Contested divorce plays a crucial role in protecting individual rights when reconciliation is not a viable option. For this reason, it allows the suffering spouse to seek legal remedies for cruelty, adultery, desertion, or irretrievable breakdown of marriage. Interference by the judicial system in contested divorce protects all the rights of parties, whether financial or parental, thus preventing the unjust separation of parties.

In India, contested divorces are governed by several personal laws which ensure that both the religious and legal principles are followed.

Key Aspects Covered In This Blog

• The legal framework governing a contested divorce.
• The grounds for divorce under various laws.
• The process of filing for a contested divorce.
• Financial aspects, duration, and challenges.
• Maintenance, alimony, and custody of the child.
• Important Supreme Court judgments.

What Is A Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce is a legal process where one spouse seeks to end the marriage and the other opposes it, leading to court proceedings to resolve disputes regarding the dissolution of the marriage, and related issues like property division, child custody, and alimony.

Definition Of Contested Divorce Under Indian Law

A contested divorce means a legal process in which one spouse files a petition for divorce for a specific ground(s) recognized by law, while the other spouse either denies the ground(s) declared in the petition or does not grant consent to the separation. Since there is no agreement between the spouses, the matter is referred to the court for consideration of the evidence and decision according to legal provisions.

When Does A Divorce Become Contested?

A divorce becomes contested when one spouse disagrees with the divorce petition or disputes any of its terms. This can happen in the following situations:

• When either spouse does not agree ( contested) to the divorce.
• When there is a dispute over the grounds cited for the divorce.
• When conflicts arise regarding alimony, custody of their children, or division of the estate.

Since both parties do not agree on the terms of separation, the court steps in to resolve the disputes through legal proceedings.

How Is A Contested Divorce Different From A Mutual Divorce?

Legal Framework Governing Contested Divorce In India.

A contested divorce in India is governed by different personal laws based on the religion of the parties or the type of marriage. The key laws include:

• Special Marriage Act of 1954: The Special Marriage Act of 1954 applies to interfaith and civil marriages, providing similar grounds for divorce as the Hindu Marriage Act.
• Hindu Marriage Act, 1955: The Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 governs divorce among Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs, specifying grounds such as cruelty, adultery, desertion, and mental disorder.
• Indian Divorce Act, 1869: The Indian Divorce Act of 1869 regulates divorce among Christians, allowing contested divorce based on adultery, cruelty, desertion, and other factors.
• Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939: The Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939, grants Muslim women the right to seek divorce on grounds like cruelty, desertion, and failure to provide maintenance.
• Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937: The Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act of 1937 governs divorce procedures under Islamic law, including Talaq, Khula, and Faskh.
• Parsi Marriage And Divorce Act, 1936: The Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act of 1936 governs divorce among Parsis, allowing contested divorce for reasons such as adultery, cruelty, and non-consummation.

Legal Grounds For Contested Divorce In India

In India, a contested divorce is granted based on legally recognized grounds under different personal laws. The specific grounds vary depending on the religion of the parties or the type of marriage. Below are the primary grounds for contested divorce under various laws:

Grounds Under The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955

Under Section 13(1) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, either spouse may petition for divorce on the following grounds:

• Adultery: When one spouse engages in voluntary sexual relations outside the marriage.
• Cruelty: Physical or mental abuse that makes it unsafe or unbearable for the other spouse to continue the marriage.
• Desertion: When a spouse abandons the other for at least two consecutive years without reasonable justification.
• Conversion: If a spouse converts to another religion, the other spouse can seek divorce.
• Mental Disorder: If a spouse suffers from a severe or incurable mental illness, making cohabitation unreasonably difficult.
• Incurable Leprosy: If a spouse has an advanced and untreatable case of leprosy.
• Venereal Disease: If a spouse is suffering from a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease.
• Renunciation of the World: If a spouse renounces worldly life and becomes a hermit or ascetic.
• Presumption of Death: If a spouse has been missing and unheard of for at least seven years, they are presumed legally dead.

Additionally, Section 13(2) provides specific grounds for a wife to seek divorce, including:​

• Husband's marriage to another woman before the commencement of the Act.
• Husband's conviction for offences such as rape, sodomy, or bestiality.
• Non-resumption of cohabitation following a decree for maintenance.
• Repudiation of marriage by the wife if solemnized before she attained the age of fifteen.​

Grounds Under Other Marriage Laws

Other marriage laws include the Muslim Personal Law, Indian Divorce Act, 1869 (For Christians), Parsi Marriage And Divorce Act, 1936, and Special Marriage Act, 1954.

Muslim Personal Law

Under Islamic law, divorce can be initiated by the husband through Talaq or by the wife through Khula. Grounds for seeking a divorce (Faskh) through judicial intervention include:

• Talaq: Divorce initiated by the husband, including various forms such as Talaq-e-Ahsan, Talaq-e-Hasan, and Talaq-e-Biddat (Triple Talaq, now invalidated by law).
• Khula: Divorce initiated by the wife, requiring her to return the Mehr (dower) to the husband.
• Faskh-e-Nikah: A judicial divorce granted to the wife on grounds such as cruelty, non-support, prolonged absence, or failure to fulfil marital obligations.
• Lian: If a husband falsely accuses his wife of adultery, she can seek divorce through judicial intervention.
• Ila: If a husband vows to abstain from conjugal relations and does not resume within four months, the marriage dissolves irrevocably unless he revokes the oath in time.
• Zihar: If a husband compares his wife to a prohibited female relative, she is temporarily forbidden to him until he completes expiation; failure to do so allows the wife to seek divorce.

Indian Divorce Act, 1869 (For Christians)

Section 10 in the Indian Divorce Act of 1869 outlines grounds for dissolution of marriage, including:​

• Adultery: Infidelity by either spouse.
• Cruelty: Physical or mental abuse causing harm or suffering.
• Desertion: Abandonment by one spouse for at least two years.
• Conversion: Change of religion by one spouse.
• Unsound Mind: If a spouse suffers from an incurable mental illness.

Furthermore, a wife may seek divorce under Section 10(2) if the husband has since the solemnization of the marriage, been guilty of rape, sodomy, or bestiality.​

Parsi Marriage And Divorce Act, 1936

Under Section 32 of the Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act of 1936, a Parsi spouse can file for divorce based on:

• Adultery: Extramarital relations by a spouse.
• Bigamy: If a spouse marries another person while already married.
• Cruelty: Physical or mental abuse.
• Desertion: Abandonment for at least two years.
• Imprisonment: If a spouse is sentenced to seven or more years in prison.
• Mental Disorder: If a spouse is diagnosed with an incurable mental illness.
• Conversion: Change of religion by one spouse (ceased to be a Parsi).

Special Marriage Act, 1954

Applicable to interfaith and civil marriages, Section 27 of the Special Marriage Act of 1954 lists grounds for divorce, including:

• Adultery: Voluntary sexual relations outside marriage.
• Cruelty: Physical or mental cruelty.
• Desertion: Abandonment for two or more years.
• Imprisonment: If a spouse is sentenced to at least seven years in jail.
• Mental Disorder: If a spouse suffers from an incurable mental illness.
• Venereal Disease: If a spouse is infected with a communicable disease.
• Presumption of Death: If a spouse has been missing for seven years.

Furthermore, a wife may seek divorce under the grounds if the husband has since the solemnization of the marriage, been guilty of rape, sodomy, or bestiality.​

Key Considerations In Contested Divorce Cases

• Burden of Proof: The spouse filing for divorce must present strong evidence to prove the alleged grounds.
• Judicial Scrutiny: Since contested divorces involve serious allegations, courts carefully examine each case to ensure fairness and compliance with the law.
• Legal Representation: Given the complexities of contested divorces, hiring a competent lawyer is crucial to navigate procedural hurdles, present strong arguments, and safeguard one’s legal rights.

Also Read : Mutual Divorce vs. Contested Divorce: A Comparative Analysis

Step-by-Step Process Of Filing A Contested Divorce In India

Filing for a contested divorce in India is a multi-stage legal process that requires careful planning, legal support, and patience. Since such cases often involve emotional and financial strain, understanding each step can help navigate the journey more smoothly.

Step 1: Filing The Divorce Petition

The petitioner files a petition in the relevant family court and sets out the grounds for allowing the petition as per personal laws- such as cruelty, desertion, adultery, or mental illness- for seeking divorce from the spouse. The petition lays down the details of the marriage, grounds for divorce, and claims as regards alimony, custody of children, etc., and division of property.

Step 2: Issuance of Court Notice

As soon as the petition is filed, a notice will be sent by the court to the other spouse (respondent) indicating that case has been filed against him and seeking reply.

Step 3: Response By The Opposite Party

The respondent is allowed to submit a written reply of either denying or countering the allegations in the petition. It is at this stage that counter-allegations may be made, hence complicating the matter.

Step 4: Mediation And Conciliation Attempt

At this stage, before the case is taken up by a judge, the court may direct both spouses to attend mediation or counseling for settling. If mediation is successful, the case may be resolved without litigation.

Step 5: Evidence And Witness Examination

If mediation fails, the case moves to trial. Both parties present documents, witness testimonies, and other pieces of evidence in support of their claims. Lawyers cross-examine witnesses to establish certain facts before the court. This stage is usually very important to either prove or disprove allegations.

Step 6: Final Arguments

After evidence has been given, both lawyers argue their case before the judge, placing before her the important points most favorably to their client.

Step 7: Judgment And Decree

According to the arguments and the evidence presented, the court delivers its judgment, either granting a divorce or denying one. If the divorce is granted, a decree of divorce is issued, legally dissolving the marriage.

Step 8: Appeal Process (If Applicable)

If either party is dissatisfied with the court’s decision, they can file an appeal in a higher court within three months of the judgment.

Additionally, contested divorce cases often involve parallel petitions related to maintenance, alimony, child custody, and property division, which the court may decide separately. In this regard, the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment in Shobha Rani v. Madhukar Reddi clarified the interpretation of cruelty under Section 13(1)(i-a) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, setting an important precedent for divorce proceedings in India.

Also Read : When Can You Apply for Divorce After Marriage?

Cost & Duration Of Contested Divorce In India

A contested divorce typically takes 3 to 5 years to resolve, but complex cases can extend beyond 7 years. Factors influencing the duration include disputes over alimony, child custody, asset division, and court delays before finalization. Courts may also suggest conciliation, further extending the process.

Maintenance, Alimony, & Child Custody In Contested Divorce

In a contested divorce, courts decide on maintenance, alimony, and child custody. Unlike mutual divorce cases, where parties negotiate and consent to terms by themselves, the court decides the issues in contested divorces, taking into account aspects such as financial stability, dependency, and the welfare of the child.

Maintenance: Financial Support During and After Divorce

Maintenance means payment of money to a spouse in need during or after the divorce proceedings.

Purpose

Maintenance is awarded so that a spouse who has been supported financially during the marriage can maintain the same standard of living after the divorce.

Factors Considered by Court

• Income and property of both spouses.
• Length of marriage, as a general rule: the longer the marriage, the greater the maintenance.
• Style of living enjoyed during marriage.
• Economic dependency and needs of the spouse requesting maintenance.

Legal Provisions

• Section 125 CrPC provides for maintenance rights to spouses of every religion.
• Laws of Maintenance governed by Personal Laws: Such maintenance claims are governed by Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Parsi laws.

Types Of Maintenance

• Interim Maintenance: Financial assistance granted to one spouse during divorce proceedings temporarily.
• Permanent Maintenance: This is the final settlement made by way of periodic payments or a lump sum after the divorce.

Enforcement

In the event of default in the deposition of maintenance money, the aggrieved spouse can:

• Contempt of court proceedings.
• Property attachment or garnishment of income.

Alimony

Alimony is a one-time or ongoing financial settlement given to the spouse with lesser means after divorce has been ordered.

Purpose

The purpose of Alimony is to cater to the needs of a spouse who is incapable of sustaining himself or herself.

Types Of Alimony

• Lump Sum Alimony: One-time settlement paid at the time of divorce.
• Periodic Alimony: Regular financial payments made over a specified period.

Factors Determining Alimony

• The income-earning capacities of both spouses
• Age and health of spouse being supported
• The financial and non-financial contribution to their marriage (housewife).
• Child custody considerations, if applicable.

Court Proceedings

If alimony is contested, the court may require pieces of evidence regarding income, tax returns, and assets that are exchanged by both parties. The judge analyses the evidence to reach a reasonable amount.

Child Custody

Child custody remains one of the most emotional aspects of a contested divorce. The needs of the child remain of uppermost importance in the mind of the court that ensures physical, emotional, and educational aspects are duly catered to.

Factors Influencing Custody Decisions:

• The child's age and preference, if he/she is old enough to express his/her choice.
• Parental economic status and ability to care.
• There is an emotional bond between the child and each parent.
• History of domestic violence or abuse (if any).

Types of Custody Arrangements:

• Sole Custody: One parent has full custody, while the other may have visitation rights.
• Joint Custody: Both parents share decision-making responsibilities.
• Shared Custody: The child alternates between both parents for specific durations.

Child Support:

Courts may order the non-custodial parent to provide financial support based on:

• Their income and earning capacity.
• The child's financial needs and standard of living.

Legal Framework: Child custody laws primarily fall under the Guardians and Wards Act of 1890, along with personal laws based on religion.

Common Challenges In Contested Divorce Cases

Contested divorces are often emotionally, financially, and legally draining; due to these obstacles, the process feels long and drawn-out. Some of the typical challenges include:

Prolonged Legal Proceedings

The longer the court delays, the more the case drags out from one hearing to the next with adjournments that add to the stress and increased legal costs.

False Allegations

An accusation of cruelty or adultery or domestic violence would sometimes be misused for the sake of advantage and make the proceedings more hostile.

Child Custody Disputes

Disputes on custody tend to prolong litigation, hurting both the parents and the child emotionally and increasing difficulties to reach an amicable settlement.

Proving Legal Grounds

Establishing claims like mental cruelty, desertion, or adultery requires substantial evidence, which can be challenging to collect and present effectively in court.

Financial Burdens

Long-drawn court sessions tend to affect an expenditure on legal fees, maintenance claims, or partition of assets; these cumulative expenses generally present a tough burden for both parties.

Property And Asset Disputes

Disagreements over the partition of marital property, joint assets, and financial settlements are usually those very matters that have become more complex and are now more difficult in the divorce process.

Supreme Court Judgments & Recent Case Laws

The case laws are:

Naveen Kohli vs Neelu Kohli on 21 March 2006

The Supreme Court granted a divorce based on mental cruelty due to Section 13(1) of the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 in Naveen Kohli vs. Neelu Kohli (2006).

Facts

Naveen Kohli alleged that his wife harassed him, filed false criminal cases against him, and attempted to tarnish his personal and professional image. Their marriage had gone through deep turmoil, resulting in continuous conflict and suffering.

Judgment

The Supreme Court held that prolonged mental harassment falls under the definition of cruelty, laying down the law for divorce under Section 13(1) of the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955. The court also recommended recognizing the irretrievable breakdown of marriage as an objective ground for divorce.

Shobha Rani versus Madhukar Reddi (1988)

In the case of Shobha Rani v. Madhukar Reddi (1988), Shobha Rani sought a divorce on grounds of dowry harassment by the husband and in-laws. The High Court denied her request, saying that demands were sometimes made in matrimonial relationships.

Judgment

The Supreme Court ruled that dowry demands amount to cruelty, stating that wrongdoing need not be wilful; acts that even unintentionally make life together unbearable fall within the definition. The ruling was a strengthening of women's rights in marriage-related disputes.

C. Solomon v. Josephine (1958) – Annulment on Grounds of Mental Illness

In C. Solomon v. Josephine (1958) tells that the husband, under Section 18 of the Indian Divorce Act, 1869, sought annulment saying that at the time of the marriage his wife was a lunatic and idiot, and, therefore, this was concealed from him. He alleged to have been misled by the impression that she only had a slight mental aberration which would improve with time. The wife contested all these allegations and argued that she left the matrimonial home because of cruelty and fear.

Judgment

The Madras High Court overturned the annulment, stating mental illness must be proven with substantial evidence. The court held that mere unhappiness in marriage does not justify divorce.

Conclusion

A contested divorce in India is more than a legal battle; it can be a heart-wrenching and financially draining process that involving prolongrd court proceedings, collection of evidence, and weeks of disputes over alimony, child custody, and property settlements. In contrast to mutual consent divorces, where both partners agree to separate amicably, contested divorces most often lead to long and exhausting litigations.

Marriage laws recognize grounds like cruelty and desertion, understanding the legal complexities and potential challenges is crucial. Given the lengthy timelines and financial burden, exploring alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation can sometimes be a better option.

With the ongoing Supreme Court rulings shaping divorce laws, staying informed about one’s rights and legal remedies is essential. Seeking expert legal guidance can help navigate the process more effectively and ensure that one’s interests are protected.

FAQs

Q1. Is 1-year separation mandatory for a contested divorce?

As for contested divorces, a one-year separation is not mandatory. Unlike mutual consent divorces, which need a one-year separation for filing, a contested divorce may be filed immediately upon proof of valid grounds being presented, such as cruelty, adultery, desertion (2 years required), and conversion under personal laws.

Q2. Can a contested divorce be settled out of court?

Yes, if both spouses agree, they can convert the case into a mutual consent divorce through mediation or an out-of-court settlement.

Q3. What happens if one spouse refuses to grant a divorce?

A contested divorce can proceed even if one spouse refuses to consent. The petitioner must prove valid grounds in court. However, the non-cooperative spouse can delay the case through non-appearance, counterclaims, or procedural tactics. If they repeatedly avoid hearings, the court may grant an ex-parte divorce in their absence.

Q4. How many hearings are required for a contested divorce in India?

There is no particular number fixed for the hearings. On average, it is about 15-20 times depending on the complexities of the cases. It includes the filing stage, the response, interim reliefs, evidence, witness examination, and final arguments. Contested divorce generally takes 3-5 years in addition to the delay caused by court back-logs.

Q5. What happens if false allegations are made in a contested divorce case?

If false allegations (e.g., cruelty, adultery, domestic violence) are made, the accused spouse can:

• File a case of defamation.
• File for perjury, if lies are proved in court
• Submit counter-evidence to rebut the said allegations.

Q6. How to speed up a contested divorce in India?

To avoid delays, one can:

• Opt for mediation and alternate dispute resolution to settle issues amicably.
• Avoid unnecessary adjournments by ensuring timely legal responses.
• Apply for expedited hearings under family court provisions.
• Hire an experienced lawyer to handle legal complexities efficiently.

Q7. Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce case?

Yes, a lawyer is required due to the legal complexities involved. A lawyer helps in:

• Filing the petition and presenting evidence.
• Conducting cross-examinations and counterclaims.
• Negotiating settlements wherever possible.

While the law does permit one to represent oneself but can be challenging, making expert legal assistance advisable.