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Indigenous wife applauded by Madhya Pradesh High Court: Woman admired for remaining with in-laws, despite husband's abandonment

In Hindu tradition, an ideal Indian wife's behavior is based on dharma, cultural norms, and the sacredness of the marital bond, even when abandoned by her husband, as stated by the court.

Spouse model wife in India lauded by High Court for maintaining ties with in-laws despite husband's...
Spouse model wife in India lauded by High Court for maintaining ties with in-laws despite husband's desertion

Indigenous wife applauded by Madhya Pradesh High Court: Woman admired for remaining with in-laws, despite husband's abandonment

In the realm of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has made significant observations that shed light on the court's perspective of an "ideal" Indian wife and the importance of enduring marriage despite challenges.

Ideal Hindu Wife

The court commended a wife who resided with her in-laws for 19 years, despite being deserted by her husband. Her actions were hailed as those of an "ideal Hindu wife," as she neither begged for her husband's return nor maligned him. Instead, she embodied quiet endurance and noble conduct, maintaining the dignity of both her natal and in-law families.

Enduring Marriage Despite Abandonment

The court emphasized that marriage is not merely a contract but a "Sanskar" or an indelible sacrament. This implies a deep cultural and religious commitment to the institution of marriage, which should endure even in the face of abandonment or significant hardship.

The fact that the wife did not forsake symbols of her marriage status, like the mangalsutra and sindoor, even after being abandoned, reflects her commitment to these principles.

Cruelty and Trivial Disputes

The court has also reiterated that minor disputes, such as refusal to live with in-laws or attend family functions, do not constitute cruelty under the Hindu Marriage Act. These are considered normal wear and tear of married life and do not justify divorce.

These observations underscore the court's view that marriage is a serious commitment and that minor issues should not lead to divorce. They also highlight the importance of resilience and dignity in maintaining the marriage, even in difficult circumstances.

In the case in question, the wife lived with her in-laws for nearly two decades despite being abandoned by her husband. The Court found that the wife demonstrated a strong determination and character.

The husband alleged that his wife disliked him, accused him of drinking, and had illicit relationships. However, the Court found no grounds for divorce in the case. The wife's actions towards her husband were respectful and helpful. The Court's decision was based on the wife's behavior and the husband's actions.

Advocate Pramod C Nair represented the respondent-wife, while Advocate Sameer Verma represented the appellant-husband. The observations were made by Justices Vivek Rusia and Binod Kumar Dwivedi. The Madhya Pradesh High Court made these observations while dealing with a plea filed by the husband challenging a trial court order denying him divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act.

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