JUDGEMENT :

1. This is first appeal under Section 96 CPC against the judgment and decree dated 10.01.2008 passed by learned the District Judge, North Bastar, Kankar (CG) in Civil Suit No. 2-A/2007, by which the Civil Suit filed by the plaintiff under Section 15(8) of the Dissolution of Muslim Marriage Act, 1939 has been allowed and the marriage solemnized between the appellant and the respondent has been declared as null and void. Learned trial Court by impugned judgment and decree has directed the appellant to return the gifts which have been received by the relatives of the respondents at the time of marriage within two months.

2. For the sake of convenience, the parties shall be referred to in terms of their status as shown in Civil Suit No. 2-A/2007.

3. Brief facts as mentioned in the plaint are that the marriage between the plaintiff and the defendant was solemnized on 19.05.2004 in village, Jaisakarra, Tehsil Charama, District Kanker (CG). After the marriage, the plaintiff was residing with her matrimonial house at Durg. It is contended that there was demand of dowry by the husband and from his family members. It is further contended that the appellant demanded Rs. 50,000/- for