1. Rule. Heard finally with the consent of the learned Counsel for the parties.

2. An interim order passed by the Family Court, Nagpur directing the petitioner to pay maintenance pendente lite in proceedings filed under Section 7 of the Guardian and Wards Act, 1890 (for short the said Act) is under challenge on the ground that there is no jurisdiction conferred under the said Act to award interim maintenance. Another order granting partial access to the petitioner is also under challenge.

3. The petitioner and the respondent were married on 15.12.2002 and out of said wedlock, they have two children. The relations between the petitioner and the respondent having become strained, they started residing separately. The present petitioner has filed proceedings for divorce which are pending. With a view to get a declaration that the petitioner was the guardian of the minor children, he filed proceedings under Section 7 of the said Act. Prayer for grant of custody was also made.

4. During pendency of aforesaid proceedings, the respondent and the two children filed an application before the Family Court praying that the petitioner be directed to pay a sum of Rs.15,000/- per month to