New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Friday underscored the necessity for husbands to actively participate in domestic responsibilities, including cooking, cleaning and washing. Presiding over a matrimonial dispute, the court observed that a man marries a "life partner”, not a servant, and must contribute equally to the household.

These remarks were made by a bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, during the hearing of a petition filed by a man challenging a Karnataka High Court order. The High Court had previously overturned a trial court’s decision that had granted the man a divorce on the grounds of cruelty.

Domestic chores not a ground for cruelty

The counsel representing the husband informed the apex court that mediation between the couple had failed. The pair, both employed as government school teachers, married in May 2017, but have been living separately since 2019. Seeking a divorce, the counsel argued that the wife's "improper behaviour" and her refusal to cook food constituted cruelty.

The bench, however, questioned this reasoning, noting that modern domestic dynamics have evolved. Justice Nath remarked, "You have to equally participate in all these. Cooking, cleaning, washing, everything. Today's times are different."

The court further noted that the High Court was correct in its assessment that such domestic issues do not necessarily qualify as legal cruelty.

Partner over domestic help

Refining the court's stance on the nature of marriage, Justice Mehta pointedly told the counsel, "You are not marrying a maid. You are marrying a life partner."

The bench expressed its intention to mediate the matter directly and has summoned both parties to appear physically before the court. The matter has been posted for a further hearing on April 27, during which the justices will speak with the couple to explore the possibility of a resolution.

PTI