Right to Maintenance (Alimony)
Right to financial support from a spouse or children.
🗣️ What this means for you
If you are unable to maintain yourself financially, you have the right to claim maintenance (monthly financial support) from your husband. This applies during separation or after divorce. Elderly parents can also claim maintenance from their adult children.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
Step 1: Gather details of your husband's income (salary slips, bank statements, property documents).
Step 2: Hire a lawyer or approach the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) for free legal aid.
Step 3: File a petition for maintenance in the Family Court.
Step 4: You can file an application for "Interim Maintenance" to get financial support while the main case is going on.
⚖️ The Relevant Law
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) & Hindu Marriage Act (2023)
Section 144 (BNSS) / Section 24 (HMA)
"Order for maintenance of wives, children and parents."
⚠️ Punishment / Penalty
Failure to pay court-ordered maintenance can lead to attachment of property or imprisonment.
Required Documents
- 📄Proof of marriage
- 📄Details of husband's income and assets
- 📄Details of your own income/expenses and children's expenses