Estranged Wife Wins Battle for Family Pension Rights

The Allahabad High Court has affirmed that an estranged wife is entitled to her deceased husband's family pension, even if his sons are listed as nominees. This ruling was made in favor of Urmila Singh, who had contested the pension denial following her spouse's death.

Justice Manju Rani Chauhan delivered the verdict allowing Singh's writ petition, emphasizing the statutory nature of family pensions as a legal entitlement beyond the employee's unilateral wish. Singh had been receiving maintenance from her husband before his demise.

Singh's application for the pension was initially rejected for not being listed in official documents. However, the court recognized her rights through Gram Pradhan certification, leading to a directive for pension release in her favor.

(With inputs from agencies.)