Pune: In a significant judgment, a Pune court recently granted a divorce to a woman, identifying her husband's prolonged inability to engage in marital relations as a form of cruelty.

The woman, Reshma (name changed), filed for divorce after medical tests confirmed her husband Ramesh’s (name changed) inability to fulfill marital duties due to a physical condition.

The couple, married in an arranged ceremony in May 2014, had remained without marital relations for seven years.

In her complaint, Reshma alleged that Ramesh showed no interest in initiating marital relations, often leaving for devotional gatherings without prior notice.

When she questioned him, Ramesh reportedly expressed a lack of interest in married life and stated intentions of adopting a monastic lifestyle. He also displayed irregularity at work, which eventually led to his dismissal, resulting in Reshma being sent to her parental home for six months.

When Ramesh secured another job, he brought Reshma back, yet continued his previous behavior, frequently organizing socio-cultural gatherings at their home.

As the years passed without children, family and friends began to question the couple. Ramesh, however, cited Reshma as the cause.

The family eventually insisted on a medical evaluation for Ramesh, revealing his inability to fulfill marital relations. Following this, Reshma, represented by lawyer Vikas Sharad Musale, filed for divorce.

Despite her husband's condition, Reshma reportedly tried to preserve the marriage, advising him to seek appropriate treatment, which he refused. Consequently, she proceeded with the divorce filing.

While Ramesh appeared in court with his attorney, he did not provide a defense, leading the court to grant Reshma’s divorce request.

Court Orders Monthly Alimony

The court, recognizing Reshma’s lack of income as a homemaker, approved her request for alimony. Ramesh was ordered to pay Reshma seven thousand rupees monthly as financial support.