A Karnataka High Court judge has sharply criticized a woman, Radha Munukuntla, for requesting over Rs 6 lakh per month in maintenance from her husband.
Munukuntla, seeking financial support under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, detailed her expenses to justify the demand.
During the August 20 hearing, Munukuntla’s lawyer outlined her expenses, including Rs 15,000 per month for clothing and accessories, Rs 60,000 for food, and Rs 4-5 lakh for medical treatment, including knee pain and physiotherapy. The total maintenance request was Rs 6,16,300.
The judge expressed astonishment at the high amount and questioned the necessity of such expenses for a single woman without family responsibilities. The judge remarked, “Please don’t tell the court that it is all a person requires. Rs 6,16,300 per month! Does anybody spend this much? A single lady for herself. If she wants to spend, let her earn. Not on the husband.”
The judge emphasized that Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act is not intended to penalize a husband in a dispute but to provide reasonable support for basic needs. The judge instructed the lawyer to present a more reasonable amount, warning that the petition would be dismissed if the demands were not adjusted. A video of the judge’s comments during the hearing has since gone viral on social media.
Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act allows for interim maintenance and legal expenses for a dependent spouse during matrimonial disputes if they lack sufficient independent income.
