Ara: Bhojpuri actor and singer Pawan Singh’s estranged wife Jyoti Singh on Wednesday told the Family Court at Ara Civil Court that she wants to continue her marriage but, if that is not possible, she should be granted Rs 10 crore as maintenance.
According to her counsel Vishnudhar Pandey, Jyoti Singh made an emotional appeal before the judge during reconciliation proceedings in the ongoing divorce case. The court is currently attempting mediation between the two parties to explore the possibility of a settlement before moving ahead with the divorce process.
Jyoti Singh arrived at the court for the scheduled hearing and waited for some time for Pawan Singh, who did not appear. She later left the premises visibly distressed. Her lawyer said the court had directed both parties to remain present as part of reconciliation efforts.
Speaking to reporters, Pandey said Jyoti told the court, “It has been seven years since our marriage, but I have neither received my husband’s love nor any financial support. I want to live with Pawan Singh. If he does not wish to stay with me, then I should be given Rs 10 crore as maintenance. I only seek justice.”
She also stated that at every hearing she is given a new date and attends court personally, while her husband has allegedly failed to appear or take a clear stand. “In seven years of marriage, I have only faced mental agony and uncertainty. I come to court each time hoping for reconciliation or a concrete decision, but I am left waiting,” her lawyer quoted her as saying.
Pawan Singh did not attend Wednesday’s hearing. His counsel informed the court that the actor was unwell and his blood pressure had increased. According to Jyoti’s lawyer, the court was told that Singh had been admitted to a hospital for treatment, though the name of the hospital was not disclosed. A video call was reportedly arranged to show that he was undergoing treatment.
Pandey alleged that Jyoti Singh has not received any maintenance or financial support for the past four to five years. He added that even the petition seeking interim maintenance has not seen significant progress so far. The judge observed that the court would first assess the possibility of reconciliation between the parties before taking a decision on maintenance and related expenses.
The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for February 24. The court is expected to interact directly with both parties to understand the nature of their dispute and explore whether differences can be resolved. If reconciliation fails, the divorce proceedings may move forward, and a decision could be delivered within a few months, according to her lawyer.
Jyoti Singh also claimed that her identity as Pawan Singh’s wife has affected her personal and professional life. She said she faces difficulties stepping out or taking up private employment, as crowds gather wherever she goes due to her association with the Bhojpuri star.
The couple married on March 7, 2018, in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh. This was Pawan Singh’s second marriage. His first wife, Neelam Singh, died by suicide in 2015. Jyoti Singh has also levelled serious allegations in court, including claims of verbal abuse, physical assault and forced abortions. She has been living at her parental home in Ballia since shortly after the marriage and has sought interim maintenance from the Family Court.
The court has not yet passed any final order in the matter.
