Chahal-Dhanashree Divorce: ₹4.75 Cr Alimony Explained—How Do Courts Decide?

New Delhi: Cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma's relationship is now over. The Bandra Family Court approved the divorce petition of both. The Bombay High Court also allowed the waiver of the 'cooling-off' period to expedite the process. As part of the divorce settlement, Dhanashree Verma has received an alimony of Rs 4.75 crore from Chahal. This amount was decided by mutual consent of both. The court approved this agreement and ensured that both parties do not have any problem.

How is alimony decided?

There is no formula for determining alimony in Indian law. The courts decide the amount of alimony on a case-by-case basis. The Supreme Court had clarified in a case last year that alimony is not meant to punish only one partner, but its purpose is to ensure the financial security of the dependent partner. In the same decision, the court had mainly determined eight factors.

Can men also ask for alimony?

It is generally believed that alimony is given only to wives. However, according to Indian law, husbands can also claim alimony. Under Section 24 and 25 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, the husband can ask for alimony if he proves that he was financially dependent on the wife. However, in such cases the court examines very strictly and the husband has to prove that he was unable to work due to some serious reason, such as illness or disability.

High-profile divorces and alimony

Hrithik Roshan-Sussanne Khan: According to reports, about Rs 400 crore was demanded in the divorce settlement.

Saif Ali Khan-Amrita Singh: Saif had to pay alimony worth crores of rupees.

Karan Mehta-Nisha Rawal: The court passed a settlement of Rs 1.5 crore.

How is alimony decided in other countries?

US: Some states have a fixed formula, while in some states judges take into account different factors.

UK: The main objective of the court is to ensure that both partners can get a reasonable standard of living even after divorce.

Germany and France: Here financial assistance is given for some time.

China and Japan: Here alimony is given very little and is usually in the form of a lump sum.

Middle East: Here, under Islamic law, alimony is limited only to the 'Iddat' period after divorce.