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The Allahabad High Court has made a significant legal ruling, stating that moral obligations cannot be enforced as legal responsibilities. This statement came while dismissing a petition from an elderly couple who sought maintenance from their daughter-in-law following the death of their son.

Background of the Case

The elderly couple's son, who served as a constable in the Uttar Pradesh police, passed away in 2021. They argued that they are uneducated and entirely dependent on their son. After his death, their daughter-in-law, also a constable in the same police force, received all financial benefits associated with her job. The couple contended that due to her sufficient income, it was her duty to care for her in-laws.

Distinction Between Moral and Legal Duties

In a ruling delivered on February 4 by Justice Madan Pal Singh, the court noted that while serving in-laws can be seen as a moral obligation in society, there is no legal requirement for it. The court emphasized that unless there is a written law, moral sentiments cannot be imposed legally.

Scope of Section 144 of the Indian Civil Protection Code

The elderly couple sought relief under Section 144 of the Indian Civil Protection Code. The court observed that this section only grants the right to maintenance to wives, children, and parents. The lawmakers deliberately excluded 'in-laws' from this list, meaning that the daughter-in-law cannot be legally compelled to support her in-laws under this law.

Final Verdict of the Court

The High Court upheld the previous decision of the Family Court, rejecting the couple's petition. The court also noted that there was no evidence in the records to prove that the daughter-in-law was employed on compassionate grounds (in place of her deceased husband). Ultimately, the court reiterated that maintenance can only be claimed by individuals falling within specific categories defined by law.