#maintenance case

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ruled that Family Courts cannot shut down a petitioner’s right to present evidence in maintenance proceedings merely for non-appearance, without verifying legitimate hardship or offering a meaningful opportunity to be heard. This reinforces natural justice under BNSS and protects vulnerable litigants from summary dismissal in long-pending family disputes.

Andhra Pradesh High Court directs trial court to expedite pending maintenance case, prohibits casual adjournments and mandates progress reporting to ensure timely justice.