What did the Delhi High Court decide on February 23?

The court held that a non-earning spouse is not idle and recognised the economic value of homemaker labour. It upheld Rs 50,000 per month as maintenance, focusing on dignity and reasonable needs rather than only wages. The decision strengthens support calculations that value unpaid care and household management.

Does a working wife lose maintenance under Section 125 CrPC?

Not automatically. Courts assess both sides’ incomes, needs, dependents, health, and standard of living. An earning spouse may still receive support if her income does not meet reasonable expenses. Recent High Court views stress that limited earnings alone do not justify denying maintenance altogether.

How do courts usually calculate maintenance amounts?

Judges consider the payor’s income, fixed obligations, dependents, lifestyle during marriage, and the recipient’s documented needs. Evidence like rent agreements, school fees, medical bills, and bank statements helps. Interim maintenance can be fixed quickly, then revised when fuller financial disclosures arrive or circumstances change.

What practical steps help during a maintenance case?

Create a line-item budget, collect bills and statements, and keep a caregiving time log. Use automatic transfers for regular payments and share monthly receipts. Communicate changes in income or expenses through your lawyer promptly. Clear records support fair orders and make enforcement smoother if defaults occur.

Law and Government

February 23: Delhi High Court Upholds Homemaker Value in Maintenance

ByDanny Kontos February 23, 2026

Delhi High Court maintenance R took center stage on February 23 as the court said a non-earning spouse is not idle and upheld Rs 50,000 monthly maintenance. The bench recognised the economic value of homemaker labour. This aligns with recent High Court trends that do not deny support only because the wife earns. We break down what Section 125 CrPC and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act mean for families, budgets, and legal strategy in India today.