Courts Differ on Maintenance: Financial Need and Income Considered in Wife's Claims
The Allahabad High Court upheld a Rs 20,000 monthly maintenance order for a wife, ruling that education or earning capacity alone do not bar maintenance if the wife lacks sufficient income. In contrast, the Karnataka High Court set aside a similar maintenance order, emphasizing that maintenance should be granted only if the wife cannot maintain herself according to her husband's standard of living, especially when she earns more and has no additional financial responsibilities. Both courts highlight the need to assess financial circumstances rather than assume automatic maintenance based on gender.