On May 11, 2026, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a public interest litigation challenging the gender-specific divorce provision in the Hindu Marriage Act, which allows only wives to seek divorce after a year of non-cohabitation post-maintenance decree. The court emphasized the legitimacy of special provisions for women and children.

• 01The Supreme Court dismissed a plea challenging women's exclusive right to divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act.
• 02The provision allows wives to seek divorce if cohabitation has not resumed for over a year after a maintenance decree.
• 03Chief Justice Surya Kant questioned the petitioner's motives, suggesting personal vendetta.
• 04The court reaffirmed the legislative power to create special provisions for women and children.
• 05The petitioner was advised to seek constitutional amendments for broader changes.

This ruling reinforces the existing legal framework that supports women's rights in marriage and divorce, potentially affecting future matrimonial disputes.