A Lok Adalat on Sunday ruled that even a second wife has the right to maintenance for herself and the couple's child. The court dealing with pending matrimonial cases asked a Delhi police constable to pay his second wife Rs4,000 per month as maintenance.

The court also asked him to include the name of his second wife's daughter in his official documents, including the Central Government Health Scheme, so that the child can avail of the medical facility.

The policeman had married the woman in 2003 even though his first marriage was alive. He has three children from the first marriage.

"The court decided that my wife will keep her and I will pay her Rs4,000 a month. I am happy with the decision," he said.

The court has fixed March 5 for the final disposal of the case.

About 5,426 cases of domestic violence and 7,700 cases of maintenance are pending in five district courts in the capital.

Rakesh Bhatnagar/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication