Section 21B of HMA : Section 21B: Special Provision Relating To Trial And Disposal Of Petitions Under The Act

Explanation using Example

Imagine a couple, Ravi and Priya, who have filed for divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. Their case is brought before a family court in India. According to Section 21B of the Act:

• The court begins the trial, and Ravi and Priya are required to attend daily hearings. The judge is committed to concluding the trial without unnecessary delays. Only if there is a compelling reason, which must be documented, can the judge postpone a hearing to a date beyond the next day.
• The court also aims to complete the entire trial within six months from when Priya received the notice of Ravi's petition for divorce. This ensures that the case does not drag on indefinitely, causing further stress and uncertainty for both parties.
• If either Ravi or Priya decides to appeal the decision of the family court, their appeal will also be heard swiftly. The higher court strives to finish the appeal hearings within three months from the date Priya, if she is the respondent to Ravi's appeal, receives the notice of appeal.

This section of the Act helps to avoid prolonged legal battles and promotes timely justice in matrimonial disputes.