New Delhi

The Supreme Court of India on Friday underscored that a husband must equally participate in household chores, observing that marriage is a partnership, not a service arrangement.

A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta made the remarks while hearing a petition challenging a divorce ruling by the Karnataka High Court.

“Times have changed”

During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the marriage had broken down and mediation efforts had failed. The man, who married in 2017 and has been separated since 2019, sought divorce on grounds of cruelty—initially granted by a trial court but later set aside by the High Court.

When asked to explain the alleged cruelty, the counsel claimed the wife displayed improper behaviour and did not cook food.

Rejecting this reasoning, the bench emphasised evolving social norms.

“You have to equally participate in all these—cooking, cleaning, washing, everything. Today’s times are different,” Justice Nath observed, adding that such claims may not constitute cruelty.

Justice Mehta remarked, “You are not marrying a maid. You are marrying a life partner.”

READ MORE: Kolkata's Dr Honey Qureshi is an angel for childless couples

Case to continue

The court was informed that both individuals are employed as teachers in a government school. The bench directed both parties to appear in person for further interaction and posted the matter for hearing on April 27.

The observations highlight the judiciary’s continued emphasis on equality and shared responsibilities within marriage, reflecting changing societal expectations around gender roles.