Vicky RCR
Vicky RCR
Vicky RCR
marry each other in 2011 according to Hindu Ceremonies. The couple got their Marriage
registered as per the provisions of The Special Marriage Act, 1954 and in effect a marriage
certificate was issued by the authorities. They had two children’s out of this wedlock born in
the year 2012 and 2016 respectively. Tamanna was a disciple of Peer Baba and had blind faith
on baba. Even after marriage she continued to visit Baba . Abhiram was not happy with these
practices. In January 2014, after taking voluntary retirement from Indian Navy Abhiram went
to France for higher studies. Tamanna refused to visit foreign nation for one year on the
advice of Baba. Abhiram left for France alone. Then in April 2015 , Abhiram called his wife
to join him in France along with their first child. In January 2016, their second child was born
in France. In Feb-2016, he came back to jalgoan along with his wife and two kids. In March
2016 , Abhiram told his family that he has to clear some institutional formalities at France
and he will return after six months. After moving to France in March 2016, Abhiram got
opportunity to work with leading university and stayed in France.After Sept- 2016 he severed
all his contacts with Tamanna. In Jan -2017 Tamanna wrote a letter to Abhiram expressing her
willingness to join Abhiram in France. She also explained that Baba has advised her and
Abhiram to live together under one roof otherwise Baba will Curse them. Abhiram in reply
wrote to Tamanna that she should not come to France as he was interested in getting their
marrage dissolved. In Dec-2017 he got the citizenship of France. In April -2018, he filed
petition for divorce in Trial court of France on the ground that marriage has irretrievably
broken down. Tamanna could not contest these proceedings. She having no means to go to
France . Parents of Tamanna visited her mother in law and asked them to talk to their son.
Tamanna tried to make Abhiram understand about Hindu culture but he refused to continue
the marriage . Mean while on July 13 2018, trial Court of France granted a divorce decree in
favour of Abhiram. Further the court order that the husdand would pay to his wife and
children an amount of Rs:35000 per month for their maintenance. After the decree of Trial
Court of France, Abhiram and Evelyn entered in a civil solidarity pact in Aug 03 2018.
Abhiram didn’t disclose the facts of ex-party decree of divorce and his entering into a
relationship with Evelyn to his parents and Tamanna. Abhiram continued to pay the
maintenance amout to Tamanna through crediting the amount in her bank account in months
of Jul;y, August and September 2018. After paying maintenance for three months Abhiram
failed to pay maintenance to wife and children. Mean while Tamanna came to know about ex-
parte decree of divorce. Tamanna approached the legal Aid cell, Jalgoan. Cell helped
Tamanna through a letter to the trial court of France that she be provided legal aid. Thereafter,
proceedings were initiated and warrant of arrest was issued against Abhiram. She further said
that the ex-party decree of divorce obtained by the husband was not binding on her and was
illegal and that she continued to be the wife of Abhiram. She further asserted that as per the
provision of the special marriage act-1954 the ground of divorce (on the basis of adultery
cruelty and desertion ) under section 27 of the act are available to the wife under the given the
set of circumstances. Infacts, she is the actual victim, who was being further victimized by
the order of the France Trial court. In December-2018, Tamanna filed a petition under section
22 of The Special Marriage act, 1954, for Restitution of conjugal Rights in the District Court,
Jalgoan. Abhiram appeared in court and filed an application for dismissal of petition. He
referred to the decree of divorce granted by the Trial Court of France and said that despite
notice, Tamanna did not contest the same and by not raising any objection she is deemed to
have accepted the jurisdiction of the foreign court. Further, by accepting the maintenance,
Tamanna again in effect accepted the judgment of foreign court and is thus stopped from
filing the present petition (under section 11 read with section 151 of CPC,1908). The case is
pending for adjudication in District Court, Jalgoan. Legal Issues: 1)Whether the marriage of
Tamanna and Abhiram is valid under the provisions of The Special Marriage Act,1954? 2)
Whether non contest by the wife of divorce petition filed by the husband in a Foreign court
imply that she had conceded to the jurisdiction of the foreign court ? 3)Whether the principle
of Res-judicata under sec.11 of CPC ,1908 is applicable to the proceedings being initiated by
the District Court, Jalgoan? 4)Whether the relationship of Abhiram and Evelyn is legal?
5)Whether Tamanna is entitled to restitution of Conjugal Rights under the special marriage
act,1954? Participants can add more issues.
Legal Issues:
Whether the marriage of Tamanna and Abhiram is valid under the provisions of The Special
Marriage Act,1954?
Whether non-contest by the wife of divorce petition filed by the husband in a Foreign court
imply that she had conceded to the jurisdiction of the foreign court?
Whether the principle of Res Judicata under sec. 11 of CPC, 1908 is applicable to the
proceedings being initiated by the District Court, Jalgoan?
Whether the relationship of Abhiram and Evelyn is legal?
Whether Tamanna is entitled to restitution of Conjugal Rights under the Special Marriage
Act, 1954?
Whether Tamanna's blind faith and practices, which were not accepted by Abhiram, constitute
cruelty under the Special Marriage Act, 1954?
Whether Abhiram's abandonment of Tamanna and their children constitutes desertion under
the Special Marriage Act, 1954?
Whether the maintenance payment made by Abhiram to Tamanna implies recognition of the
marriage despite the foreign divorce decree?
Whether the actions of Abhiram in concealing the divorce decree and his subsequent
relationship with Evelyn constitute fraud?
Whether the issuance of a warrant of arrest against Abhiram affects the legal proceedings in
Jalgoan?
Whether Tamanna's lack of means to contest the divorce proceedings in France affects her
rights under Indian law?
Whether the citizenship of France acquired by Abhiram impacts the jurisdiction of Indian
courts in this matter?
Whether the involvement of a legal aid cell in Jalgoan affects the jurisdiction or legal
standing of the case?
what are options for abhiram to succeed
Abhiram has several options to potentially succeed in the legal proceedings:
Asserting Foreign Court Jurisdiction: Abhiram can argue that since the divorce was
granted by a competent foreign court (the Trial Court of France), and Tamanna did not
contest it, she has implicitly accepted the jurisdiction of that court. This argument could be
used to challenge the jurisdiction of the District Court, Jalgoan, in hearing Tamanna's petition
for restitution of conjugal rights.
Claiming Estoppel: Abhiram can argue that Tamanna's acceptance of maintenance payments
after the foreign divorce decree was issued implies acceptance of the divorce judgment. He
could assert that Tamanna is now estopped from challenging the divorce decree or seeking
restitution of conjugal rights.
Fraudulent Concealment: Abhiram could argue that his failure to disclose the foreign
divorce decree and his subsequent relationship with Evelyn to Tamanna and his parents was
not fraudulent or relevant to the present legal proceedings.
Challenging Tamanna's Capacity to Contest: Abhiram might argue that Tamanna's lack of
means to contest the divorce proceedings in France does not negate her acceptance of the
divorce judgment or her capacity to contest the present proceedings in Jalgoan.
Questioning Tamanna's Grounds for Restitution: Abhiram could challenge Tamanna's
grounds for seeking restitution of conjugal rights, arguing that her blind faith and practices,
which were not accepted by him, do not constitute cruelty under the Special Marriage Act,
1954, or that his actions do not amount to desertion.
Asserting Legal Irregularities: Abhiram could also argue that there were legal irregularities
or deficiencies in the proceedings initiated by Tamanna, such as questioning the involvement
of the legal aid cell in Jalgoan or challenging the validity of the warrant of arrest issued
against him.
These are potential legal strategies Abhiram could employ to defend against Tamanna's
petition for restitution of conjugal rights and to assert his position in the ongoing legal
proceedings. Each strategy would depend on the specific facts of the case and the
interpretation of relevant laws by the court.
Whether the French court is considered a competent court to render a judgment in Abhiram's
case depends on various factors, including the specific circumstances of the case, the
applicable laws, and principles of international law. Here are some considerations:
Jurisdictional Authority: The French court's jurisdictional authority to hear and adjudicate
Abhiram's case depends on whether it has proper jurisdiction under French law. Generally,
French courts have jurisdiction over matters involving individuals who are domiciled or
habitually resident in France, as well as cases with a substantial connection to France.
Special Marriage Act, 1954: While Abhiram and Tamanna registered their marriage under
the Special Marriage Act, 1954 in India, the act of obtaining a divorce decree in France
suggests that the French court asserted jurisdiction over the matter. The French court's
jurisdictional authority may be based on various grounds, such as Abhiram's residence in
France or the location of their marital home during their time in France.
International Law and Treaties: The recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments,
including those issued by French courts, are governed by principles of international law and
any applicable treaties or agreements between countries. If India has treaties or agreements
with France regarding the recognition and enforcement of judgments, those provisions would
also be relevant in determining the competence of the French court.
Due Process and Fairness: In assessing the competence of the French court, it's essential to
consider whether Abhiram had a fair opportunity to present his case, whether due process
requirements were followed, and whether the judgment reflects principles of fairness and
justice.
Challenges to Jurisdiction: If Abhiram believes that the French court lacked jurisdiction or
that its exercise of jurisdiction was improper, he may have the option to challenge the
jurisdictional basis of the French court's decision through legal proceedings in India or other
appropriate forums.
In summary, whether the French court is considered competent to render a judgment in
Abhiram's case depends on a thorough analysis of jurisdictional issues, applicable laws,
international legal principles, and considerations of fairness and due process. Abhiram should
consult with experienced legal counsel who can provide tailored advice based on the specific
facts and circumstances of his case.
How the respondent abhiram counsel can file the written statement in the court
To file a written statement on behalf of Abhiram in response to Tamanna's petition for
restitution of conjugal rights in the District Court, Jalgoan, Abhiram's counsel would typically
follow these steps:
Review the Petition: Abhiram's counsel would carefully review the petition filed by
Tamanna to understand the grounds on which she is seeking restitution of conjugal rights, the
relief she is requesting, and any specific allegations made against Abhiram.
Gather Information: Abhiram's counsel would gather all relevant information, documents,
and evidence that can support Abhiram's defense. This may include documentation related to
the marriage, communication between Abhiram and Tamanna, evidence of attempts at
reconciliation, and any other pertinent information.
Draft the Written Statement: Based on the review of the petition and the gathered
information, Abhiram's counsel would draft the written statement. The written statement
typically contains a response to each paragraph of the petition, admitting or denying the
allegations and setting forth any defenses or counterclaims.
Structure of the Written Statement: The written statement typically begins with an
introduction, followed by a statement of jurisdictional facts, a response to each paragraph of
the petition, and any additional defenses or counterclaims. It should be organized logically
and clearly written.
Legal Arguments and Defenses: Abhiram's counsel would include legal arguments and
defenses in the written statement, citing relevant case law, statutory provisions, and legal
principles to support Abhiram's position. This may include arguments related to jurisdiction,
recognition of foreign judgments, estoppel, irretrievable breakdown of marriage, and any
other applicable defenses.
Verification and Signature: The written statement must be verified and signed by Abhiram
or his authorized representative, certifying the truthfulness of the contents stated therein. This
verification is typically done by way of an affidavit attached to the written statement.
Filing in Court: Once the written statement is prepared and verified, Abhiram's counsel
would file it in the District Court, Jalgoan, where the case is pending. The written statement
must be filed within the time frame prescribed by the court rules or as directed by the court.
Service on the Opposing Party: Abhiram's counsel must also serve a copy of the written
statement on Tamanna's counsel or directly to Tamanna if she is representing herself, in
accordance with the court rules and procedures.
By following these steps and ensuring that the written statement is thorough, well-structured,
and legally sound, Abhiram's counsel can effectively present Abhiram's defense in response
to Tamanna's petition for restitution of conjugal rights.
what are the citing relevant case law, statutory provisions, and legal principles to support
Abhiram's position
To support Abhiram's position in the case for restitution of conjugal rights, his counsel may
cite relevant case law, statutory provisions, and legal principles. Here's a selection of potential
citations:
Case Law:
Yamunabai Anantrao Adhav v. Anantrao Shivram Adhav: This case provides insights into the
legal principles governing restitution of conjugal rights under the Hindu Marriage Act.
Abhiram's counsel could cite this case to provide a framework for understanding the legal
requirements and grounds for seeking restitution of conjugal rights.
Vijaykumar Ramchandra Bhate v. Neela Vijaykumar Bhate: This case addresses the concept
of irretrievable breakdown of marriage and its implications for granting divorce. Abhiram's
counsel could reference this case to argue that the marriage between Abhiram and Tamanna
has irretrievably broken down, justifying the denial of Tamanna's petition for restitution of
conjugal rights.
Statutory Provisions:
Section 22 of The Special Marriage Act, 1954: Abhiram's counsel could cite this provision,
which allows either party to a marriage to petition for restitution of conjugal rights if the
other party has withdrawn from the society of the petitioner without reasonable excuse.
Section 27 of The Special Marriage Act, 1954: This section outlines the grounds for
divorce, including adultery, cruelty, and desertion. Abhiram's counsel could argue that
Tamanna's actions, such as refusal to join him in France and failure to maintain regular
contact, constitute desertion, providing grounds for divorce rather than restitution of conjugal
rights.
Legal Principles:
Principle of Estoppel: Abhiram's counsel could argue that Tamanna's acceptance of
maintenance payments without contesting the foreign divorce decree constitutes waiver or
estoppel, barring her from seeking restitution of conjugal rights. This principle prevents a
party from asserting a claim or defense that is inconsistent with their prior actions or
representations.
Principle of Irretrievable Breakdown of Marriage: Abhiram's counsel could invoke this
principle to argue that the marriage between Abhiram and Tamanna has irretrievably broken
down, making it futile to attempt reconciliation through restitution of conjugal rights.
By citing relevant case law, statutory provisions, and legal principles, Abhiram's counsel can
build a strong legal argument to support Abhiram's position and defend against Tamanna's
petition for restitution of conjugal rights. It's essential for Abhiram's counsel to thoroughly
research and analyze the law to present a compelling case before the court.
Validity of divorce under the Marriage Act: In case of Rupak
Rathi vs. Anita Chaudhary (2014), The husband had filed for
divorce in UK and then the wife had filed for divorce in India. While
the proceedings were on in both the countries, the UK court had
passed divorce decree due to “irretrievable breakdown of marriage.
The husband sought rejection of wife’s divorce petition in Panchkula
Court, citing that divorce in UK was binding, However, the District
Court Panchkula dismissed his petition stating that “irretrievable
breakdown of marriage is not a valid provision under Hindu Marriage
Act”. His appeal in High Court was dismissed.