how much maintenance can wife claim from husband in Kolkata

A wife can claim maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, or under the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, depending on the relief sought. The quantum of maintenance is determined by the court based on the husband's income, the wife's own earning capacity, the standard of living, and the number of dependents. The Calcutta High Court has held that maintenance should enable the wife to live with reasonable dignity and not be merely a token amount. West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 may prescribe minimum maintenance amounts or additional protections specific to West Bengal. The Supreme Court has laid down that maintenance should generally not exceed one-third of the husband's net salary, though this is a guideline and not an absolute cap. The wife can also seek interim maintenance during the pendency of proceedings. File the petition before the Family Court or Magistrate Court in Kolkata with supporting income documents.