Supreme Court Uses Article 142 to End Marriage After ₹30 Lakh Settlement
Apex Court stresses dignity, directs removal of social media posts
Case highlights Article 142 powers in irretrievable breakdown of marriage
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: December 25, 2025:
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India dissolved a marriage by exercising its extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, which allows the apex court to pass orders to ensure “complete justice.” The decision came after the estranged couple reached a mutual settlement of ₹30 lakh. Importantly, the Court also directed both parties to remove all derogatory social media posts against each other, underscoring the importance of dignity and closure in matrimonial disputes.
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Background of the Case
- The couple had been engaged in prolonged litigation, with multiple cases pending in different courts.
- The husband approached the Supreme Court seeking transfer of proceedings, while the wife sought relief under matrimonial laws.
- During mediation facilitated by the Supreme Court Mediation Centre, both parties agreed to a ₹30 lakh settlement.
- The settlement included financial compensation and a commitment to withdraw all pending cases.
The Court noted that the marriage had irretrievably broken down, making reconciliation impossible.
Court’s Observations
Justice-led bench made several important observations:
- Extraordinary Powers: Article 142 empowers the Supreme Court to dissolve marriages even when statutory grounds under the Hindu Marriage Act are not met.
- Irretrievable Breakdown: The Court recognized that forcing the couple to remain married would serve no purpose.
- Social Media Conduct: The directive to remove negative posts was aimed at preventing further harassment and ensuring closure.
- Settlement Validity: The ₹30 lakh settlement was considered fair and binding, covering financial claims.
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Impact of the Ruling
This ruling has wide implications:
- For the Couple: Provides finality and closure, ending years of litigation.
- For Family Law: Reinforces the Supreme Court’s role in recognizing irretrievable breakdown of marriage as a valid ground for divorce.
- For Society: Sends a strong message about responsible use of social media during disputes.
- For Judiciary: Demonstrates how Article 142 can be used to deliver justice beyond statutory limitations.
Broader Context
- The Supreme Court has previously used Article 142 in similar cases, including dissolving marriages where reconciliation was impossible.
- Legal experts argue that this strengthens the case for formally recognizing irretrievable breakdown of marriage as a statutory ground for divorce.
- The ruling also highlights the growing role of social media in matrimonial disputes, with courts now addressing online harassment alongside legal proceedings.
Reactions
- Legal Community: Praised the judgment for balancing law with compassion.
- Public Opinion: Many see it as a progressive step towards reducing prolonged matrimonial litigation.
- Women’s Rights Groups: Welcomed the emphasis on dignity and closure, especially the directive on social media posts.
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Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision to dissolve a marriage under Article 142 after a ₹30 lakh settlement is a landmark in Indian matrimonial law. By directing the removal of negative social media posts, the Court has set a precedent for ensuring dignity in personal disputes.
This case highlights the judiciary’s evolving approach to family law—one that blends legal authority with human sensitivity.
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