J U D G M E N T

A.M.Shaffique, J.

This appeal is filed by the petitioners in O.P.No.774/13, challenging judgment dated 7.1.2016, by which, an application for maintenance for the petitioners was partly allowed. The original petition was filed inter alia seeking past and future maintenance for the divorced wife and minor child under sections

18 and 20 of the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act , 1956.

2. There is no dispute about the fact that the couple were married and later on divorced. Claim was for maintenance @ `5,000/- per month for the first petitioner/wife and @ `7,000/- for the minor daughter. The 1st petitioner has also claimed `3,60,000/- as arrears of maintenance.

3. The respondent entered appearance and filed objections stating his readiness to provide maintenance to the minor @ `2,000/- per month. However, he disputed the liability to pay :-2-:

maintenance to the wife. Later, he remained ex parte. Based on the proof affidavit filed by the petitioner, the Family Court allowed maintenance @ `5,000/- for the minor. However, maintenance was denied in respect of wife/1st petitioner.

4. Learned counsel for the appellants impugn the aforesaid judgment on two grounds. One is that a