Summary
The Supreme Court set aside the Rs.15 lakh permanent-alimony determination because neither court supplied reasons or findings on the spouses’ financial capacities. It remanded quantum to the Family Court for fresh decision within six months, allowing amended pleadings and evidence if necessary. The unchallenged divorce decree remained final, and the husband had to continue the existing monthly maintenance pending determination. The Court expressed no view on the proper eventual alimony amount.
Issues
- Whether the permanent-alimony award was supported by adequate reasons and financial findings.
- What scope and interim arrangements applied on remand.
Held
- The Family Court and High Court omitted the parties’ relevant factual cases, discussion of evidence and categorical findings on both spouses’ earning capacities. Their cryptic orders did not explain why Rs.15 lakh was appropriate and were unsustainable. (¶¶ 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17)
- Reasoned adjudication required the essential facts, issues, submissions, applicable principles and reasons founded on appreciation of the material evidence. The omission prejudiced the husband by preventing him from knowing the basis for the amount fixed. (¶¶ 15, 16, 17)
- Only the permanent-alimony determination was reopened. The wife had not challenged the divorce decree, which had attained finality. The Supreme Court expressed no merits view on the quantum to be fixed. (¶¶ 14, 19, 20, 21)
- The Family Court was to decide quantum afresh within six months as an outer limit and could permit amendment and additional evidence if necessary. Existing monthly maintenance continued, subject to the final determination. (¶¶ 20, 22, 23)
Result
Appeal allowed; permanent-alimony determination set aside and quantum remanded for decision within six months. Divorce decree remains final; existing monthly maintenance continues subject to the eventual determination.