Vikram Nath Article 142 decision

In Pradeep Bhardwaj vs. Priya, the Supreme Court exercised its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to dissolve a marriage on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown. Despite the dismissal of the divorce petition by both the Family Court and the High Court, the Supreme Court found that the prolonged separation of over 16 years, failed reconciliation efforts, and the lack of emotional or physical cohabitation demonstrated a dead marital bond. The Court observed that compelling the couple to remain legally bound would serve no beneficial purpose. The Court also enhanced the monthly maintenance to be paid by the husband to Rs. 15,000, taking into account the responsibilities of the homemaker wife and the welfare of the minor child. (Drafted Summary)