Summary: In a recent ruling, the Bombay High Court directed Mukesh Popatlal Gada to pay his ex-wife, Purvi Mukesh Gada, a monthly support of Rs. 3.5 lakh. This decision was made after considering Mukesh's financial situation and the living standards Purvi was used to during their 16-year marriage.
Purvi and Mukesh Gada got married on November 16, 1997, in Mumbai. They lived together for 16 years in Pune before separating in 2013. Mukesh applied for divorce in 2015, which was approved by the Family Court in Pune on February 24, 2023, citing mistreatment. Initially, Mukesh was ordered to pay Rs. 50,000 per month as support.
During the case, Mukesh often failed to make the support payments. Purvi asked for an increase to Rs. 5 lakh per month, arguing that Mukesh's financial statements were misleading and did not show his true wealth.
"Mukesh's statements also show a strong sense of entitlement," noted the court.
Mukesh claimed his income was too low to afford the support payments, pointing to his tax returns showing an income of Rs. 6 lakh annually. However, the court found these claims unreliable, considering Mukesh's lifestyle and business interests in real estate and financial services.
The court examined Mukesh's financial status, noting his involvement in family businesses with substantial assets. Despite his claims of limited income, Mukesh's lifestyle, including luxury parties and high-end living, suggested otherwise.
"Mukesh is seen as the 'leader' of the family business," the court observed, highlighting his significant role in the Gada Group's businesses.
Purvi has been solely responsible for raising their daughter since 2013. Her financial situation has been tough, relying on her brother's support to get by. The court recognized her efforts to maintain a decent standard of living for her daughter, despite limited means.
After looking at all the evidence, the court decided that the previous support amount was not enough. The judges, Somasekhar Sundaresan and B.P. Colabawalla, ordered Mukesh to pay Rs. 3.5 lakh per month, acknowledging Purvi's right to a respectable life.
"Purvi is entitled to live with dignity and provide her daughter a life of dignity," the judgment emphasized.
