Kochi, September 20, 2025 – Under Muslim personal law, polygamy is permissible only for men who have the capacity to provide equal justice and maintenance to all wives, the Kerala High Court ruled on Thursday. Citing verses from the Quran, the court clarified that a person without such means has no right to enter into a second or third marriage.

A 39-year-old Muslim woman from Perinthalmanna in Kerala had filed a petition seeking maintenance from her husband. During the hearing, Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan's bench made this observation.

The respondent, a 46-year-old blind Muslim man from Palakkad, sustains himself by begging in front of mosques. He has two wives, and his second wife also begs for a living. Recently, he threatened to divorce her and marry a third wife. Upset by this, she approached the Family Court seeking Rs 10,000 per month in maintenance. The court rejected her petition. Subsequently, she moved the High Court. Also Read: Bangladesh Stuns Sri Lanka in Thrilling Asia Cup Super Fours Opener: here is the info about "Naagin Derby" rivalry.

What did the High Court say?:
"The respondent belongs to the Muslim community and is therefore entitled to the benefits of his customary law, which allows him to marry two or three times. However, a second or third wife cannot consent to marriage with a man who lacks the means. Lack of education among Muslims and ignorance of Muslim personal law are leading to such marriages," the court expressed concern. Additionally, it directed the Social Welfare Department to provide appropriate counseling to the man.Levi's Men's Slim Fit Mid Rise 511 Mid-Rise Jeans