S.13B Hindu Marriage Act | Consent For Divorce Can Be Unilaterally Withdrawn By A Party Even After Conclusion Of Arguments: Orissa HC

The Orissa High Court ruled that a party could withdraw consent for a mutual divorce under Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act. The decision came after one of the parties in a divorce petition changed their mind, claiming that they were coerced into consenting to the divorce. The court emphasized the importance of voluntary consent in divorce proceedings and stated that the withdrawal of consent would not invalidate the petition if it was not granted freely. This ruling clarified the legal stance on mutual consent divorces and affirmed that both parties must independently agree to the dissolution of marriage.