Under Indian law, maintenance is a legal right granted to a wife, irrespective of her religion, in case of a divorce or separation. The laws governing maintenance for a married woman in India are as follows:
Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973: This law allows a wife, who is unable to maintain herself, to claim maintenance from her husband. The husband is legally bound to provide maintenance to his wife, including food, clothing, and shelter.
Hindu Marriage Act, 1955: Under this Act, a wife is entitled to maintenance from her husband in case of a divorce or separation. The amount of maintenance depends on several factors such as the income of the husband, the standard of living of the couple, the wife's income, and other relevant factors.
Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986: This Act governs maintenance for Muslim women in India. It provides for the maintenance of a divorced woman by her former husband during the period of 'iddat', which is the period of waiting after the divorce.
Domestic Violence Act, 2005: This law provides for the protection and maintenance of women in a domestic relationship. The Act allows a woman to claim maintenance from her husband or partner in case of violence or abuse.
In conclusion, maintenance laws for a married woman in India provide for the protection and support of women in a marital relationship. The amount of maintenance varies depending on several factors, and women have the legal right to claim maintenance from their husbands in case of a divorce or separation.