SANJEEV KUMAR Vs. REKHA RANI

JUDGEMENT

(1.) A petition under Section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (in short "the Act of 1955") for dissolution of marriage by a decree of divorce was filed by appellant-husband Sanjeev Kumar against his wiferespondent Rekha Rani, which was dismissed by learned Additional District Judge, Sangrur, vide judgment and decree dated 14.08.2003. Assailing the said judgment and decree, the instant appeal was preferred by the appellant-husband.

(2.) In precise, the facts extracted from the record are as under:- The marriage between the parties was solemnized on 05.12.1997 at Patiala according to Hindu rites and ceremonies. After marriage, they resided together as husband and wife in the matrimonial home at Malerkotla for a period of about one month.

(3.) The respondent contested the petition. The preliminary objections raised by her were with regard to maintainability of the petition and cause of action etc. Replying on merits, she admitted the factum of marriage with the petitioner and submitted that it was under forced and compelling circumstances that she was residing with her parents at Patiala. She pleaded that on 29.04.1998 she was given severe beatings and was turned out of the matrimonial home in three wearing clothes by the petitioner. She denied all allegations levelled against her as false and vexatious and submitted that in fact she was a victim of cruelty at the hands of the petitioner and his family members.