VISWAMBHARAN Vs. DHANYA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Is an unmarried daughter, who has attained majority, entitled to claim maintenance under Section 20 of the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act from her father This is the short question that arises for consideration in this appeal.

(2.) The relationship between the parties is admitted. Both claimants are daughters of the appellant. The 1st claimant had crossed the age of majority even when she filed the application. She was about 19 years old. The 2nd claimant was aged about 15 years on the date when she filed the claim petition. She has crossed the age of majority during the pendency of the proceedings.

(3.) The claimants contended that the appellant-their father, was not maintaining them. He was residing separately. In the circumstances, the claimants who were unable to maintain themselves claimed that the appellant may be directed to make payment of an amount of Rs. 1,000/- per mensem to each of them as maintenance. The appellant had sufficient means, it was contended. He was formerly employed in the Gulf. He was getting military pension. He has a goods autorikshaw. He is employed as a Security Guard in the Guruvayoor Temple. His monthly earnings far exceed Rs. 4,500/-, it was contended.