Maintenance not Provided to Minor Son Stating Unemployment: Punjab and Haryana HC directs to Pay Maintenance Considering ITR

The Punjab and Haryana High Court directed a petitioner to pay maintenance arrears and monthly support to his minor son, despite claiming unemployment. The court based its decision on the petitioner's Income Tax Returns, finding sufficient income to fulfill the obligations. The case arose from a petition under Section 125 Cr.P.C., where the father contested his ability to pay due to unemployment and Below Poverty Line status. However, the court dismissed these claims, noting the father's property dealings and agricultural income. Justice Nidhi Gupta criticized the father for neglecting his parental responsibilities, emphasizing the mother's sole support in caring for the child. The court upheld the maintenance order, stressing the father's duty to contribute financially. Mr. D.S. Matya represented the petitioner, countered by Mr. J.S. Ghumman for the respondent.