In a recent decision, the Delhi High Court changed the temporary support payments that Hitesh Makhija must provide for his three children. Let's break down the details of this case.
Hitesh and Ritu Makhija got married in Delhi on January 26, 2014. They have three kids, born in 2014, 2018, and 2020. Ritu claimed that soon after their marriage, Hitesh and his family started asking for dowry, which included items like a TV and cash gifts. Ritu also said that she was forced to work and give her salary to Hitesh's family.
On December 23, 2023, the Trial Court in Shahdara, Delhi, ordered Hitesh to pay ₹30,000 per month for the children's support. The court noticed differences in Hitesh's income claims, stating he worked at his mother's pharmacy earning ₹9,000 a month, yet had money coming into his bank account that suggested otherwise.
"It is hard to understand how someone earning ₹9,000 a month has a credit card in his name."
Hitesh appealed this decision, arguing his low income and claiming Ritu earned more. However, the Sessions Court supported the maintenance order on March 30, 2024, questioning the truthfulness of Hitesh's financial information.
"Even though his parents cut him off, Hitesh was still working at his mother's pharmacy."
On December 27, 2025, the Delhi High Court, with Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in charge, reviewed the case. The court found that Hitesh's income claims were not true and noted his qualifications, suggesting he could earn more than stated. So, the court reduced the maintenance to ₹25,000 per month, starting from when the case was first filed.
The court emphasized that both parents are responsible for their children's well-being. Despite Ritu's income, Hitesh cannot avoid his duties.
"The law of maintenance is not about who earns less but about who really takes care of the children."
The court decided to lower the amount Hitesh has to pay for his children's support to ₹25,000 per month, recognizing that both parents need to share the responsibility of raising their children and that truthful income reporting is crucial.
