What is the nature of the minimum period of six months stipulated under Section 13B(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955? [1000598720001] Can the six-month cooling off period under Section 13B(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 be waived in exceptional situations? [1000598720001]

Key Points: - The main question is whether the six-month period under Section 13B(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 for the second motion in mutual consent divorce is mandatory or can be relaxed in exceptional situations [1000598720001] (!) . - Section 13B(2) is directory, not mandatory, and the cooling off period can be waived by the court after considering specific conditions [1000598720017][1000598720019]. - Conditions for waiver include: (i) statutory separation periods already over before first motion; (ii) mediation/conciliation efforts failed with no likelihood of success; (iii) genuine settlement of differences like alimony and custody; (iv) waiting period would prolong agony [1000598720017] (!) (!) (!) (!) . - Waiver application can be filed one week after the first motion, and the court has discretion if conditions are satisfied [1000598720018][1000598720019]. - Supreme Court cannot use Article 142 to waive the period contrary to statute when no proceedings are pending before it, as Manish Goel holds the field [1000598720008][1000598720003]. - Parties lived separately since 2008 (over 8 years), settled disputes with alimony paid, and sought waiver for resettlement [1000598720001][1000598720002]. - Object of Section 13B(2) is to prevent hurried decisions and allow rethink for reconciliation, not to perpetuate purposeless marriages [1000598720014][1000598720015]. - Courts can use video conferencing or representation by close relations in such proceedings [1000598720021]. - Parties directed to approach the concerned court for fresh consideration in light of this judgment; appeal disposed of [1000598720022] (!) .

What is the nature of the minimum period of six months stipulated under Section 13B(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955? [1000598720001]

Can the six-month cooling off period under Section 13B(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 be waived in exceptional situations? [1000598720001]