SC notice to Shami, asks his wife if Rs 4 lakh a month isn’t enough? Full story here

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has issued notice to Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami and the West Bengal government in response to a petition filed by his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan, seeking an increase in the monthly maintenance for herself and their daughter. Jahan challenged a Calcutta High Court order that had fixed alimony at Rs 1.5 lakh per month for her and Rs 2.5 lakh for their daughter. In her plea, she argued that the current amount is insufficient given Shami’s financial standing and lavish lifestyle, requesting a higher monthly maintenance. SC Questions Need for Higher Alimony During the hearing, the Supreme Court questioned the need for an increase in alimony, asking, “Isn’t Rs 4 lakh per month already a lot of money?” Despite the remark, the bench issued notices to both Shami and the West Bengal government, directing them to file their responses within four weeks. The matter is expected to be next heard in December. “Mohammed Shami doesn’t need a certificate”: Bengal coach’s fiery message to selectors after Ranji heroics Legal Counsel Highlights Shami’s Wealth Hasin Jahan’s legal team emphasized Shami’s substantial earnings and assets, arguing that the cricketer, being an international sportsman, leads a highly affluent lifestyle. “The husband earns a lot of money. Look at the affidavits—he has property worth hundreds of crores, cars, frequent foreign travel, and a luxurious lifestyle,” her lawyer stated before the court. The plea also highlighted that Shami had failed to pay maintenance for several months despite clear directions from both the family court and the Calcutta High Court. Jahan argued that while she may not claim a personal right over Shami’s income, their daughter is entitled to a standard of living comparable to that of her father. “The daughter has the right to interact with the children of his peers, study in similar schools, and live with dignity,” the petition stated. Background of the Dispute The legal battle between Shami and Hasin Jahan has been ongoing since 2018, following allegations of domestic abuse, dowry harassment, and financial disputes. The case has seen multiple hearings in family and high courts, with periodic directions regarding maintenance and other claims. Bollywood-Style Comeback: How MS Dhoni’s biopic revived Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq’s cricketing dream? Next Steps in the Case The Supreme Court’s notice represents the latest development in this long-standing dispute. Both Shami and the West Bengal government have been asked to submit their replies within four weeks. Once the responses are filed, the court is likely to resume hearing the matter in December, when it will examine whether the existing maintenance arrangement should be revised. This development has once again brought the high-profile cricketer’s personal life into the public spotlight, highlighting ongoing debates around child maintenance, spousal support, and financial responsibilities in high-income families.