Why not earn? CJI Slams woman for demanding BMW, Mumbai Flat, 12 Cr In Alimony
In a matrimonial dispute hearing before the Supreme Court, a woman’s demand for a luxury flat in Mumbai, Rs.12 crore in alimony, and a high-end BMW car drew strong remarks from Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who questioned the basis of such claims following a marriage that lasted only 18 months.
Appearing in person, the woman told the Bench that her estranged husband, a former Citibank manager now running two businesses, had filed for nullity of marriage, claiming she was schizophrenic. “Do I look schizophrenic, my lords?” she asked the Bench.
When asked about her demands, she said she wanted a house in Mumbai, Rs. 12 crore as maintenance, and a BMW. CJI Gavai, referring to the demand for a flat in Kalpataru, remarked, “That house is from one of the good builders… you had a marriage for just 18 months, and you also want a BMW? You’re practically asking for Rs. 1 crore for every month of the marriage.”
Senior Advocate Madhavi Divan, appearing for the husband, argued that the woman was highly educated and capable of supporting herself. “She also has to work. She can’t make such demands for everything,” Divan submitted.
The Chief Justice emphasized that she could not claim assets belonging to her husband’s father. Advising her to adopt a more pragmatic approach, the Court reviewed the husband’s tax records and noted a drop in income after his resignation from Citibank.
Suggesting a practical path forward, CJI Gavai told the woman to consider accepting Rs. 4 crore and finding work in one of the major IT hubs. “You are so educated. You shouldn’t be asking. You should earn and support yourself,” he said.
Hearing Date: July 21, 2025
Bench: CJI BR Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran