PYLA MUTYALAMMA @ SATYAVATHI vs PYLA SURI DEMUDU

The Supreme Court ruled that a second wife, whose marriage is void due to the husband's existing marriage, is not entitled to maintenance under Section 125 Cr.P.C. The Court emphasized the presumption in favor of legitimacy and valid marriage when a couple has cohabited for a long time, requiring strict proof of the prior marriage when the husband claims the second wife is a concubine. The Court overturned the High Court's decision that had set aside the Family Court's order granting maintenance to the estranged wife, thereby reinstating her right to maintenance.