Karnataka High Court Orders Rs. 75,000 Monthly Support in ‘Promise to Marry’ Case, Grants Interim Stay

NewsFlash Daily™

24 April

Justice M. Nagaprasanna Bench Directs Accused to Provide Financial Support to Woman and Child While Hearing Plea to Quash Case

Bengaluru: In a significant interim order, the Karnataka High Court has directed Krishna J. Rao, son of a former BJP leader from Puttur, to pay ₹75,000 per month as maintenance to a woman and her 10-month-old child, even as it granted a conditional interim stay on criminal proceedings against him.

The order was passed by a bench headed by M. Nagaprasanna while hearing a petition filed by the accused seeking quashing of the case, which involves allegations of establishing a physical relationship on the pretext of marriage and later abandoning the woman after childbirth.

Court Prioritises Welfare of Mother and Child

The High Court observed that the child and the mother should not be left destitute, emphasising the responsibility of the accused.

“The child and the mother cannot be rendered helpless. It is the duty of the father to ensure their well-being,” the court noted during the hearing.

The bench made it clear that financial support must continue until further notice, ensuring immediate relief to the affected parties while the legal process continues.

Interim Stay Granted with Conditions

While granting interim relief to Krishna J. Rao, the court imposed the monthly maintenance condition as a prerequisite, balancing the interests of both sides. The court also restrained the victim and her family from making public statements to the media during the pendency of the case.

Defence Cites Long-Term Relationship, Alleges Political Motive

Appearing for the petitioner, advocate P.P. Hegde argued that the case stems from a seven-year-long relationship and claimed that political rivalry has led to the accused’s family being implicated.

However, the court underscored that legal responsibility towards the child remains paramount, regardless of the nature of the relationship between the parties.

Court Suggests Settlement, Adjourns Hearing

During earlier proceedings, the bench had explored the possibility of financial settlement, even suggesting a lower maintenance amount, before fixing the current figure. The matter has now been adjourned for further hearing, with compliance of the interim order expected.