Varghese Kalliath, J.

This is an appeal in a matrimonial cause. Husband is the appellant. He is a Doctor, having very high educational qualifications in medical science. He is a Lecturer in cardiology in one of the most reputed medical institutions - Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute of Medical Science & Technology. 1st respondent herein is his wife.

2. Appellant filed a petition under S.18 of the Indian Divorce Act to declare the marriage between himself and 1st respondent null and void. According to him, there was only a form of marriage which took place on 10th may, 1979 at the Marthoma Syrian Church, Tatabad, Coimbatore. Both of them belonged to Marthoma Syrian Christian Community. Their marriage was according to the rites of the Marthoma Syrian Church

3. After the marriage, appellant and 1st respondent stayed together at Trivandrum till 10-1-1981. There after in Delhi till 20-6-1983 and again at Trivandrum till 19-9-1983. A male child was born to them on 28-5

1980

4. The case of the appellant before the court below and here is that the-1st respondent/wife was a lunatic at the time of marriage and she continued to be so even after marriage. He elaborates his case by saying