Prioritizes Women’s Convenience in Matrimonial Case Transfers: P&H HC

In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court, with HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE ARVIND SINGH SANGWAN presiding, delivered a verdict on October 16, 2023, emphasizing the convenience of female litigants in the transfer of matrimonial cases. The case in question involved a petition under Section 13(1)(ia) of the Hindu Marriage Act, seeking the transfer of proceedings from the Family Court in Amritsar to the Camp Court Patti in Tarn Taran.

The judgement recognized the petitioner’s claim that the minor girl child was in her custody and highlighted the complexities of the case, including the registration of FIR No.66 dated 05.06.2023, which invoked Sections 498-A, 406, and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Despite attempted mediation, the proceedings had encountered difficulties due to the respondent’s uncooperative behavior.

The Court underscored the need to consider the economic soundness, social strata, and convenience of the wife in cases involving the transfer of matrimonial disputes. It was observed, “The prevailing socio-economic paradigm in Indian society dictates that it is the wife’s convenience that must be looked at while considering transfer.”

Furthermore, the judgement highlighted the importance of transferring cases that involve common questions of fact and law between the same parties. The Court stressed the desirability of trying such cases together to prevent multiplicity in trial and conflicts of decisions.

The decision was welcomed by legal experts and women’s rights advocates, citing the judgements in “Sumita Singh vs Kumar Sanjay” (2002) and “Rajani Kishor Pardeshi vs Kishor Babulal Pardeshi” (2005) from the Supreme Court, which emphasized the convenience of female litigants in transfer matters.

The representing advocate for the petitioner, Mr. Lupil Gupta, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “This judgement recognizes the importance of prioritizing the convenience and well-being of female litigants in matrimonial cases,” he stated.

In conclusion, the High Court allowed the transfer petition, directing the transfer of the case to Camp Court Patti, Tarn Taran. The Court encouraged mediation and conciliation while imposing specific conditions on the respondent should he choose to contest the transfer.

This ruling sets a precedent for prioritizing the convenience and well-being of female litigants in matrimonial cases and aligns with the principles of justice and gender equality.

Date of Decision: 16.10.2023

Amandeep Kaur  vs Revail Singh             

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