Father Seeking Maintenance : High Court Orders Probe into Father's Financial Status
Madhya Pradesh Court Expresses Concern for Daughter's Welfare Amid Father's Alleged Claims of Unemployment
News Report:
In a noteworthy judgment dated September 17, 2025, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed a thorough investigation into the financial condition and familial status of Kamal Sharma, the petitioner in a maintenance case concerning his daughter, Ku. Prapti Sharma. The court expressed its dismay over the plight of the daughter who has been struggling to receive maintenance from her father while pursuing her graduation in Mumbai.
The case, presided over by Justices Vivek Rusia and Binod Kumar Dwivedi, has attracted attention due to the father's claims of unemployment and lack of income, which he argues prevent him from providing the Rs. 10,000 monthly maintenance to his daughter. These claims were accompanied by allegations from the daughter of a second marriage and a son, which were vehemently denied by the father.
The court highlighted the importance of verifying the father's claims, emphasizing that misleading the court through false assertions of unemployment could have serious repercussions. Consequently, the court has mandated the Sub Divisional Officer (Revenue) and the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Tilak Nagar Police Station, Indore, to conduct a detailed investigation into the father's financial status, property ownership, and family structure. The report from this investigation is expected to be submitted within a week.
The judgment underscores the court's commitment to ensuring justice and safeguarding the welfare of the daughter, who cannot be expected to independently verify her father's financial status. The court's decision to direct an official investigation signifies its proactive stance in addressing potential misrepresentations in maintenance cases.
Shri Sudeep Bhargava, Deputy Advocate General, has been instructed to communicate the court's order to the concerned officials and ensure the timely submission of the investigation report. The case is scheduled to be reviewed again on October 6, 2025, along with related petitions.
This judgment reflects the judiciary's awareness of the complexities surrounding maintenance cases and its resolve to uphold the rights and welfare of individuals seeking justice.
Bottom Line:
Father claiming unemployment and lack of income to evade maintenance to his daughter pursuing graduation - Court expressing concern over the plight of the daughter and directing an investigation into the father's financial condition and familial status.
Statutory provision(s): Maintenance Law
