Unravelling The Maintenance Of A Hindu Widow: A Comprehensive Analysis

Shriya Mishra, Law College Dehradun Uttaranchal University

ABSTRACT:

Hindu marriage law in India emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the responsibilities of both husband and wife. Maintenance is a fundamental duty in accordance with Hindu morality and is considered a tool for social justice. The Hindu Women Remarriage Act of 1856, Civil Indian Marriage Act of 1872, and the Hindu Women's Right of Separate Residence and Maintenance Act of 1946 improved women's social standing during the British era. Section 125 of The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 was introduced to help women who were left defenceless and unable to support themselves after divorce. The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act of 1956 allow widowed women to receive maintenance from their father-in-law, but they must file a lawsuit for divorce or partition. Hindu law emphasizes the financial stability of Hindu wives, with important case laws such as Punni Devi v. Mangat Mal, Kanailal vs Pushparani Pramanik, Balwant Kaur & Anr vs Chanan Singh, and Dadubhai Manubhai & others vs Natvarlal Punjabhai & others.

Keywords: Property, Authority, Relationship, Right, Remarriage etc.