Bombay HC Cuts Interim Maintenance, Says Working Spouses Must Share Lifestyle Costs Equally

The Bombay High Court ruled that earning spouses must share lifestyle costs equally in matrimonial disputes.

Justice M.M. Sathaye reduced interim maintenance to Rs 25,000 per month, citing the wife's own income and her refusal to move to the Panvel flat.

The husband, a chartered accountant, argued his income dropped after losing his job during the Covid-19 pandemic and moving to Madhya Pradesh.

The court held that decisions on a child's education and fees cannot be taken unilaterally when both parents are expected to contribute.

The Family Court was directed to decide the main maintenance application within nine months.