Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Jharkhand High Court redefines orthodox wife concept
The Jharkhand High Court recently made an important decision about the role of a wife in a Hindu marriage.
They said that the old idea of a wife, called 'Ardhangini,' which meant she should always follow her husband and be like a part of his body, has changed.
Now, with more education and equal rights for women, wives are not expected to just follow their husband's wishes.
The court made this decision when they refused a husband's request to make his wife live with him, saying that neither partner in a marriage has a better right than the other.
Jharkhand High Court dismissed a husband's plea for restitution of conjugal rights.
The court observed that the orthodox concept of a Hindu wife has evolved with education and women's rights.
The traditional role of a wife as 'Ardhangini' is no longer expected in modern society.
The court emphasized that marriage partners have equal rights and no one can claim superiority.
The decision was made by a bench of Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad and Justice Arun Kumar Rai.
- Who
- Jharkhand High Court
- What
- Redefined the orthodox concept of a Hindu wife
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- Jharkhand, India
- Why
- To recognize the changing roles and rights of women in society
- Court
- Jharkhand High Court
- Judges
- Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad and Justice Arun Kumar Rai
- Plea
- Restitution of conjugal rights
- Concept
- Ardhangini
- Key Change
- Equal rights and independence for women