In M.V. LEELAVATHI VERSUS DR. C. R. SWAMY 2025 INSC 994, the Supreme Court held that determination of alimony requires consideration of multiple factors. It is evident from the material on record that the respondent has the capacity to pay a higher amount than that awarded by the Family Court. At the same time, although the appellant claims to be unemployed, she is highly qualified and has the ability to earn and sustain herself. She is not in a state of acute economic deprivation. A balanced approach, weighing the respondent’s capacity and the appellant’s needs, must therefore be adopted.
Having considered the submissions and the evidence on record, the Court held that it would be just and equitable to enhance the permanent alimony to Rs.50,00,000/- as a one-time settlement. This amount will reasonably secure the appellant’s future and ensure a standard of living commensurate with her circumstances.