JUDGMENT :

SUSMITA PHUKAN KHAUND, J.

1. Heard Mr. O. Modi, learned counsel for the petitioner. Also heard Mr. G. Jini, learned counsel representing the private respondent.

2. This petition is directed against the impugned judgment dated 21.12.2020 passed by the learned Judicial Magistrate First Class, Capital Complex, Yupia, Papum Pare District, in connection with Maintenance Case No. 36/18 under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.P.C. for short), directing the petitioner to pay a monthly maintenance of Rs. 15,000/- (Rupees Fifteen Thousand) to the respondent.

3. The corresponding Maintenance Case No. 36/18 was initiated by the respondent alleging inter-alia that she had been subjected to cruelty since 1992 by the petitioner, after her marriage to the petitioner solemnised as per ‘Galo’ customary rites. It is contended that the petitioner had indulged in extra-marital relationship with another woman, who even stayed in their matrimonial home, located at E-Sector at Naharlagun. Several kebang (local meetings) and family meetings were held, but the petitioner failed to mend his ways. It is also contended that the respondent endured the cruelty meted out to her, but when th