The provision for the maintenance of wife, children, and old parents is laid down under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973. This section is a crucial legal remedy aimed at preventing destitution and ensuring the basic sustenance of dependents who are unable to maintain themselves.
Scope of Section 125 CrPC:
Section 125 empowers a Magistrate to order monthly maintenance to be paid to:
1. Wife – if she is unable to maintain herself.
2. Legitimate or illegitimate minor child – whether married or not, who cannot maintain themselves.
3. Major child (not being married) – if he/she is physically or mentally abnormal and unable to maintain themselves.
4. Father or mother – who are unable to maintain themselves.
Key Conditions:
- The person against whom the order is sought must have sufficient means to provide maintenance.
- Neglect or refusal to maintain by the person must be established.
- The maintenance amount should be reasonable and just, as decided by the court.
Objective:
The main objective of this provision is to provide a simple, speedy, and inexpensive remedy to the aggrieved family members and to reduce destitution and social injustice.
Conclusion:
Section 125 CrPC acts as a social justice mechanism, safeguarding the rights of dependents and ensuring that they are not left homeless or hungry due to neglect.
Therefore, the correct answer is: Section 125.