Odisha govt to transfer alimony from salaries of defaulting staffers to ex-wives

Odisha government has introduced a new directive mandating the automatic deduction of alimony payments from the salaries of its employees who fail to meet their maintenance obligations to ex-wives and children, despite clear court orders. The order, applicable solely to government employees, aims to ensure timely financial support and dignity for those in need.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has emphasized strict enforcement of court-mandated alimony and maintenance payments. Defaulted amounts will now be directly deducted from the employees' monthly salaries and transferred to the bank accounts of the affected parties. Following a series of complaints from distressed women, the order was issued to address the issue of male employees neglecting their financial responsibilities after divorce, despite explicit court instructions.

The Chief Minister's office noted that the average number of such complaints received during his grievance hearings is two to three. The Chief Minister has taken a firm stance against government employees who disregard court orders and neglect their families. The government has also issued detailed guidelines for the implementation of the order.

Upon receiving a court order, the departmental drawing and disbursement officer (DDO) will deduct the specified amount from the employee's salary and electronically transfer it to the beneficiary. The CM has further directed the integration of such cases into the state's centralized human resource management system (HRMS) to ensure automated compliance and prevent delays.

Legal experts and women's rights activists have welcomed the initiative, praising its potential to uphold judicial authority and provide relief to families facing prolonged battles for rightful support.