Landmark judicial intervention
Supreme Court Invokes Article 142 to Grant Divorce: The Supreme Court of India delivered a significant ruling by dissolving a marriage using its extraordinary powers under Article 142. This provision allows the Court to ensure complete justice in cases where existing laws may fall short.
The case highlighted the misuse of legal mechanisms in matrimonial disputes. The Court intervened to prevent further abuse of judicial processes and to uphold fairness between the parties.
Static GK fact: Article 142 is part of Part V of the Indian Constitution, dealing with the Union judiciary.
Background of the dispute
The couple had agreed to a mutual consent divorce through mediation. As part of the settlement, the husband paid Rs 75 lakh, an additional Rs 14 lakh for a car, and returned jewellery mentioned in the agreement.
However, after receiving these benefits, the wife withdrew her consent. She later filed a domestic violence case against the husband and his family members, complicating the legal proceedings.
Static GK Tip: Mutual consent divorce in India is governed under Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
Court observations on allegations
The wife alleged that jewellery worth Rs 120 crore and gold biscuits worth Rs 50 crore were not returned. She claimed these were intentionally excluded from the agreement.
The Court rejected these claims due to lack of evidence. It noted that such allegations were neither included in the settlement nor reflected in any communication between the parties.
The bench described her conduct as “highly egregious” and criticised the misuse of legal provisions. It emphasized that courts cannot allow manipulation of judicial processes.
Significance of Article 142 powers
The Court reiterated that mediation settlements approved by courts are binding and must be respected. Allowing arbitrary withdrawal would weaken alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
By invoking Article 142, the Court ensured final resolution by dissolving the marriage and preventing prolonged litigation. This power is used sparingly and only in exceptional circumstances.
Static GK fact: Article 142 enables the Supreme Court to pass any decree necessary to do complete justice in any matter before it.
Final verdict and implications
The Supreme Court dissolved the marriage and quashed all pending civil and criminal cases between the parties. It directed the husband to pay the remaining Rs 70 lakh as final settlement.
This judgment reinforces the sanctity of mediation and sends a strong message against misuse of legal remedies. It also strengthens trust in the judiciary’s ability to deliver equitable outcomes.
Static GK Tip: The Supreme Court of India was established in 1950 and is the highest judicial authority in the country.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Supreme Court Invokes Article 142 to Grant Divorce:
| Topic | Detail |
| Case | Divorce granted using Article 142 powers |
| Key Provision | Article 142 of Indian Constitution |
| Issue | Withdrawal from mediation settlement and legal misuse |
| Court Observation | Allegations lacked evidence and were egregious |
| Legal Principle | Mediation settlements are binding |
| Action Taken | Marriage dissolved and cases quashed |
| Financial Direction | Remaining Rs 70 lakh to be paid |
| Significance | Reinforces judicial authority and fairness |
