The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Karnataka):The Karnataka High Court, in a significant judgment, emphasized the demanding nature of childcare, stating that a mother’s dedication to raising her children constitutes a full-time job. This observation came during the proceedings where a woman challenged the trial court’s decision that awarded her a monthly maintenance of Rs 18,000, half of the Rs 36,000 she sought under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act.
The petitioner, who had to resign from her job as a lecturer to care for her children, argued for increased maintenance, highlighting her husband’s stable job as a Manager at Canara Bank with a salary nearing Rs 90,000. The husband, countering the claim, insisted that his job was “fluctuating” and his capacity to pay more was limited. He further argued that since his wife was qualified and previously employed, she should not solely rely on maintenance.
Justice M Nagaprasanna, presiding over the case, dismissed the husband’s claim about the precarious nature of his employment, pointing out the security and incremental nature of his position in a government bank. The court also took into account the sacrifice made by the wife, who left her profession to focus on her children’s upbringing, highlighting the misconception that homemaking and childcare do not constitute genuine work.
The court’s ruling refuted the husband’s suggestion that his wife, despite being qualified, was “lazing around” and not contributing financially. It underscored the relentless and all-encompassing responsibilities of a mother and homemaker, thereby recognizing the significant, though often undervalued, contribution they make to family and society.
This verdict not only challenges societal norms that undervalue domestic work and childcare but also reinforces the legal recognition of these roles’ economic value. The decision sets a precedent for similar cases, advocating for a more equitable understanding of familial responsibilities and financial support in matrimonial disputes.
