Pune: A family court in Pune has granted a significant verdict, providing relief to a wife who endured years of physical and emotional abuse from her husband. Along with a divorce, the court has directed the husband to pay ₹10 lakh as one-time alimony, return all gold jewelry, gifts, and personal belongings, and reimburse the expenses incurred by the wife’s parents for their wedding.

The judgment, delivered by Judge Shubhangi Yadav, marks a major win for the wife after a year-long legal struggle. The court also granted the wife sole custody of their daughter, prohibiting the husband from making contact.

Case Background:

Smita and Rakesh (names changed) had a love marriage in 2005 after a long-standing friendship that turned into love. However, the marriage took a turn for the worse when Rakesh developed an addiction to alcohol. His behavior deteriorated, leading to regular physical abuse and verbal harassment.

In 2011, the wife filed a police complaint against him, citing harassment. Despite her attempts to maintain the household and meet daily needs independently, Rakesh’s actions created an unsafe and toxic environment. By 2013, she decided to separate, fearing further harm to herself and their daughter.

When the wife filed for divorce, she sought mutual consent, but the husband refused and warned her against attempting to end the marriage. However, the court dismissed his objections and approved the divorce, ensuring the wife’s safety and financial security.

Key Court Orders:

• The husband must pay ₹10 lakh as a one-time alimony settlement.

• He is required to return all gold jewelry, gifts, and personal belongings to the wife within three months.

• The expenses incurred by the wife’s parents for the wedding must also be reimbursed.

• The wife was granted full custody of their daughter, and the husband was prohibited from making any contact with them.

Advocates Ajinkya Salunkhe and Mayur Salunkhe represented the wife’s case, emphasizing her struggles and the financial and emotional burden she faced. The judgment provides her with a fresh start, safeguarding her future and that of her daughter.