New Delhi, 09-01-2025: The Supreme Court of India recently reaffirmed the indefeasible and legally enforceable right of daughters to secure educational expenses from their parents, emphasizing that such a right is legitimate and essential for ensuring equal opportunities in education. The ruling came in the context of a matrimonial dispute involving an estranged couple and their daughter, who is pursuing her studies in Ireland. The daughter had declined to accept ₹43 lakh provided by her father as part of the financial settlement, asserting her dignity in refusing the amount. However, the court clarified that the daughter is legally entitled to retain the funds for her educational needs.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan observed that a daughter’s right to education is fundamental and parents can be compelled to provide financial support for this purpose, subject to their financial capabilities. The court underscored the importance of education as a fundamental right and stated, “She, being the daughter, has an indefeasible, legally enforceable, lawful, and legitimate right to secure educational expenses from her parents.”
The case revolved around a settlement agreement entered into by the estranged couple on November 28, 2024. The agreement stipulated that the father would pay a total of ₹73 lakh, with ₹43 lakh designated for the daughter’s education and ₹30 lakh for the mother. The court noted that the father had already disbursed the ₹43 lakh for his daughter’s academic pursuits and found no justification for her returning the amount, as the father was financially capable of providing the assistance.
The court highlighted that the daughter’s decision to decline the money was a matter of maintaining her dignity and independence. Nevertheless, the bench ruled that the amount legally belonged to her and could be used at her discretion for her academic goals. The ruling emphasized the parental responsibility to support children’s education, affirming that financial assistance for education is a moral and legal obligation.
Additionally, the bench invoked its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to dissolve the marriage of the estranged couple by granting a decree of divorce by mutual consent. The court noted that the couple had been living separately for the past 26 years, and the wife had received her ₹30 lakh share as per the settlement. The court also directed that no further legal claims or disputes should arise between the parties, and any pending cases in other forums should be resolved in line with the settlement agreement.
The judgment underscores the importance of education as a cornerstone of individual empowerment and societal progress. By upholding the rights of children, particularly daughters, to receive financial support for their education, the Supreme Court has reiterated its commitment to ensuring equality and dignity for all citizens. This ruling also serves as a reminder of the enduring parental obligation to prioritize their children’s future, transcending personal differences or disputes.
This landmark decision reaffirms the judiciary’s role in protecting the rights of children and upholding constitutional values. It reflects a progressive approach to family law, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being and aspirations of children while facilitating amicable resolutions in matrimonial disputes.