Who Can Claim Maintenance!
Every woman and child has a right to basic safety and support. Under Section 144 of the BNSS, you can ask for monthly maintenance if you are
A Wife
Wives who cannot support themselves can seek monthly maintenance for living needs
A Divorced Woman
Divorced women without remarriage can claim maintenance if they cannot support themselves
A Mother
Mothers who cannot maintain themselves can seek financial support from their children
Children
Children minors or disabled adults can get maintenance if unable to earn by themself
What Is Section 144 of BNSS
Section 144 of BNSS ensures that a woman is not left without food, shelter, or basic living needs. It provides a fast and effective legal remedy instead of a long and stressful court process
Safety
Backed by law under BNSS
Needs
Food, shelter, and essentials
Relief
Without long court delays
Prevents Financial Hardship
Stops women from falling into poverty due to lack of financial support
Provides Quick Relief
Offers faster financial assistance without lengthy legal battles
Protects Dignity and Survival
Ensures basic needs are met so life can continue with dignity
Basic Financial Support
Maintenance under Section 144 helps a person meet basic daily needs. It is meant to support a life with dignity, not comfort or luxury
Food and daily household expenses for regular living
Clothing needed for day-to-day life
Rent or a safe place to live
Basic medical and health-related expenses
How the Court Decides the Amount
Your Income Status
The court checks if you have any income or source of earnings
Your Monthly Expenses
Daily costs like food, rent, and medical needs are considered
Husband's Earning Capacity
The court looks at how much the husband can earn
Avoiding Responsibility
The court notices if support is being deliberately avoided
Interim and Final Maintenance Under Section 144
Interim Maintenance
Section 144 cases are handled quickly to ensure immediate help. The court can first grant temporary maintenance so you are not left without money during the case. After hearing both sides, the court then passes a final maintenance order
Maintenance Remedy
Maintenance under Section 144 can be claimed even if other legal cases are already going on. It does not stop you from seeking support under other laws. The amount can also be changed later if circumstances change, as each law serves a different purpose
How the Court Process Works
What to Expect Before Going to Court
Prepare your documents and financial details in advance so the court can clearly understand your situation and proceed without delay
During the Case
The court considers urgency, fairness, and basic needs. You do not need legal expertise, but honesty and clarity are important
If Maintenance Is Not Paid
If court-ordered maintenance is not paid, the court can take legal action to enforce payment and protect your rights
Things You Should Know
Maintenance Is Not Automatic
You must show that you cannot support yourself and that your husband is not providing financial support. Each case is decided on its own facts
Change in Situation
If income or personal circumstances change later, the court can revise the maintenance amount to reflect the new situation
Take Control With Legal Clarity
You do not need to understand everything at once. Start by knowing what the law allows and expects. Early legal guidance helps you
Protect your finances
Secure your safety
Safeguard your children
Avoid unnecessary mistakes