#matrimonial property

The Kerala High Court ruled that gold ornaments and cash gifted during marriage can be reclaimed if proven misused, even in the absence of formal entrustment - establishing that delivery and subsequent diversion for personal use suffice to create a legal obligation to return. This clarifies the evidentiary standard for spouses seeking recovery of marital gifts in breakdowns, empowering petitioners to rely on circumstantial proof over contractual formalities.

Kerala High Court holds that inconsistent oral testimony contradicts pleadings, invalidating claims for gold ornament recovery; documentary evidence prevails in property disputes.

Bombay High Court holds that sale of marital property without spouse's consent constitutes financial abuse and mandates deposit of sale proceeds for equitable relief.

Kerala High Court holds that mere bank passbook entries are insufficient to prove misappropriation of marital funds; documentary proof essential for monetary claims in divorce proceedings.

Kerala High Court holds that gold given at marriage is presumed entrusted to husband's family for safekeeping; burden shifts to them to prove otherwise.

Kerala High Court holds that gold ornaments given at marriage and retained by husband must be returned; documentary evidence and photographs establish entitlement.