"Your Honor, this is a straightforward case of fraud and misrepresentation. My client, Mrs. Viya Khanna, was induced into this marriage under false pretenses. She was told by her uncle, Mr. Vinay Mehra, that he was seriously ill and wanted to see her settled before his death. This was a complete fabrication."
He gestured to the file.
"Furthermore, Your Honor, evidence will show that this marriage was arranged not out of genuine intent to create a marital union, but to satisfy an astrological prophecy. The respondent, Mr. Armaan Khanna, was already in a relationship with another woman, Miss Avija Mehra, and intended to marry her. This marriage to my client was always meant to be temporary, a duration of one year, after which he planned to divorce her and marry his actual intended partner."
Mahesh's voice grew stronger.
"This is a clear case of betrayal of trust, Your Honor. My client entered into this marriage believing it to be genuine, believing that her husband wanted to build a life with her. She had no knowledge of the prophecy, the temporary nature of the arrangement, or the respondent's relationship with another woman."
Mahesh sat down, and Armaan's lawyer stood immediately.
She was polished and confident, her voice clear and authoritative.
"Your Honor, my client contests this petition entirely. While it is true that the marriage was initially arranged due to familial considerations, including astrological concerns, this does not constitute fraud or misrepresentation as defined under the Act. My client entered into the marriage with full legal consent, performed all marital rites and ceremonies, and the marriage was duly registered."
She placed a document on the judge's desk.
"Furthermore, Your Honor, my client wishes to make it absolutely clear that any initial arrangements or understandings have been superseded by genuine marital affection. Mr. Khanna loves his wife. He has repeatedly expressed his desire to continue this marriage. He is ready and willing to accept all responsibilities as a husband and has made every effort to reconcile with his wife."
"Additionally, Your Honor, we must consider that the court shall not grant a decree of divorce if it finds that the petitioner has not led a consistent case. Mrs. Khanna lived as Mr. Khanna's wife for approximately two months, sharing a marital home, and there is no allegation of any cruelty or misconduct during that period. The marriage has been consummated, and I would like to inform the court that Mrs. Khanna is currently pregnant with my client's child."
I felt my face flush hot with anger and embarrassment. How dare she bring that up in open court?
The judge looked up sharply.
"Is this true? The petitioner is expecting a child?"
Mahesh stood.
"Yes, Your Honor. However, that does not negate the fraudulent basis on which the marriage was contracted."
Judge Desai removed her glasses and looked directly at me, then at Armaan.
"Mr. Khanna, please stand."
Armaan stood, his posture straight and formal.
"Is it true that you love your wife?"
"Yes, Your Honor." His voice was steady and strong. "I love her very much."
"Is it true that you wish to continue this marriage?"
"Yes, Your Honor. More than anything."
The judge turned to me.
"Mrs. Khanna, do you dispute that your husband loves you?"
I stood slowly, my legs shaking.
"Your Honor, love that is built on lies is not real love. He may believe he loves me now, but this marriage began with deception. I cannot trust anything he says."
Judge Desai studied both of us for a long moment, her expression thoughtful.
"This court recognizes the serious nature of the allegations of fraud and misrepresentation. However, this court also recognizes that marriages are not simply contracts to be dissolved at will. The court places significant emphasis on reconciliation and the preservation of marriage, particularly when children are involved."
She looked at her file again.
