The Allahabad High Court, in a heartfelt judgment, emphasized the sanctity of the mother-daughter relationship and urged both parties to seek reconciliation in a family financial dispute. In its ruling on Application U/S 482 No. 19160 of 2024, Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery highlighted the sacred nature of motherhood, quoting, “Mothers are akin to divine beings”, while advising the parties to resolve their differences amicably.
Case Background
The case involved Sangeeta Kumari, the applicant, who had a financial dispute with her mother, the opposite party. The legal matter revolved around the payment of medical expenses incurred by the applicant’s mother, who is currently undergoing treatment at Ispat Hospital, Ranchi. The applicant was represented by Advocate Prem Sagar Verma, while the opposite party was represented by Advocate Brij Raj.
The court’s intervention was not merely based on legal arguments but took into account the familial bond between a mother and daughter, expressing hope for reconciliation and an amicable settlement.
Key Legal Issues
1. Financial Responsibility Toward a Parent: The core legal issue pertained to whether the applicant was financially responsible for her mother’s medical expenses.
2. Reconciliation Outside Legal Avenues: The court and the applicant’s counsel agreed that a settlement could be reached outside of formal legal proceedings, considering the emotional aspect of the case.
Court’s Decision and Observations
During the proceedings on 14th August 2024, Hon’ble Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery observed that the applicant was not pressing the case on merit and was open to reconciliation, given that the opposite party was her mother. The court ordered the issuance of a notice and ruled that no coercive measures would be taken against the applicant if she deposited ₹50,000 in the Trial Court within one week.
On 26th September 2024, the court reiterated its hope for a resolution, urging the applicant to visit her mother in the hospital and attempt to mend their relationship. In a poignant observation, Justice Shamshery quoted ancient wisdom, advising both parties to follow the principle: “Mothers are like gods, and elders deserve respect, while the younger generation should be spared harshness.” The applicant was also directed to pay 25% of the outstanding medical bills.
Case Details:
– Case Number: Application U/S 482 No. 19160 of 2024
– Bench: Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery
– Applicant: Sangeeta Kumari
– Opposite Party: State of Uttar Pradesh and her Mother
– Counsel for Applicant: Sri Prem Sagar Verma
– Counsel for Opposite Party: Sri Brij Raj
