India, July 3 -- New Delhi

Delayed financial support is dignity denied, the Delhi high court held, ruling that maintenance awarded to wife and child cannot be postponed to suit the convenience of the earning spouse. It asserted that even a day's uncertainty could erode the dignity and well-being of those dependent on such support.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, delivering the verdict on Tuesday, said: "The very object of maintenance is defeated if its disbursal is left at the convenience of the earning spouse. Maintenance is not a benevolence or charity.Even a day's lapse compromises the welfare of the dependent wife and child. When financial support is delayed, dignity is the first casualty."

The ruling came in response to a plea by a ...