Kerala HC Upholds Elderly Mother's Right to Maintenance, Criticizes Son

The Kerala High Court has upheld a family court ruling, requiring a 57-year-old man to pay his 100-year-old mother Rs 2,000 per month as maintenance. The ruling comes after the man challenged the April 2022 order with a significant delay, prompting recovery proceedings for non-payment.

Justice P V Kunhikrishnan criticized the son, asserting that neglecting his mother was shameful. The court emphasized that caring for one's mother is a duty, not a charity, and dismissed the son's appeal. The son's argument that his mother didn't require the maintenance and that her plea was influenced by her elder brother was also rejected by the court.

Highlighting the emotional and societal implications, the court stressed the importance of maintaining family bonds and responsibilities, especially towards aging parents. Justice Kunhikrishnan remarked on the societal obligation children have towards their parents, underscoring the emotional connection and moral duty to support them in their old age.

(With inputs from agencies.)