Delhi Court Tells Woman to Get a Job, Not Depend on Ex-Husband for Alimony
In a recent judgment, a Delhi district court told a woman to find employment instead of depending on her estranged husband for financial support. The court emphasized that since she is qualified and capable, she should not put an unnecessary financial burden on her ex-husband.
The man had appealed against a previous order requiring him to pay ₹12,000 per month in alimony. In the appeal, he pointed out that his ex-wife is more qualified than him—an MSc gold medalist—yet she has made no effort to find a job.
District Judge Rekha Rani noted, “The woman admitted she is more qualified and healthy. So, she cannot sit idle and make the man pay for her expenses.”
The woman argued that although she holds a good degree, she got married at a young age, never worked, and had never travelled alone. She claimed she needed her ex-husband’s help to search for a job.
Rejecting her excuse, the judge remarked, “If she can come to court alone for litigation, she can search for a job on her own too.” The court found her claim “neither palatable nor digestible.”
The man agreed to help her find a job and pay maintenance for one year, but he insisted she should work to support herself after that.
The case adds to the ongoing discussion about alimony laws in India, especially when the spouse seeking support is educated and capable of working.
