LAHORE, October 29, 2026: The Lahore High Court has ordered an increase in monthly maintenance for minor children from Rs20,000 to Rs30,000 per child, emphasising that a parent’s responsibility to support children continues even after a marriage ends.
The decision was issued by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani while hearing a woman’s petition concerning maintenance for her minor children,
The court also directed that a 10% annual increase in child maintenance be calculated from 2019, instructing the trial court to determine the outstanding arrears in accordance with this direction.
Father’s Financial Responsibility Cannot Be Ignored
In its ruling, the court observed that a father’s obligation to provide for his children does not end simply because they live with their mother following the breakdown of a marriage.
The judgment stressed that children’s education, upbringing and essential needs must be considered when determining an appropriate maintenance amount.
The court also noted that a claim of limited income cannot be accepted solely on the basis of a verbal assertion. A parent seeking to establish financial limitations must provide supporting documentary evidence, such as salary slips.
Living in the UK Does Not Automatically Prove Higher Income
The petitioner reportedly argued that the children’s father was a British citizen and had the financial capacity to pay a higher amount.
The father, however, maintained that his monthly income in the United Kingdom was between £500 and £600.
The court observed that residence in the UK alone does not establish a person’s actual earnings. Instead, income must be assessed through evidence concerning employment, the nature of the work and other relevant financial circumstances.
Court Maintains Other Parts of the Ruling
The report also states that the High Court maintained a separate monthly maintenance award of Rs15,000 in favour of the mother for the period of iddat.
Additionally, the court upheld the alternative compensation value of Rs280,000 for dowry articles.
The trial court has been directed to calculate the children’s outstanding maintenance according to the prescribed annual increase.
What the Decision Means for Child Maintenance
The ruling highlights the importance of assessing child maintenance in light of children’s actual needs and a parent’s demonstrated financial capacity.
By directing an annual increase dating back to 2019, the court has also made the calculation of arrears a central part of the case.
The decision reinforces the principle that children’s welfare and financial support remain important responsibilities, regardless of changes in their parents’ marital relationship.
