Sangeetha, the wife of actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay, has approached the Chengalpettu Family Court seeking dissolution of her marriage.
Marriage Details
According to the petition, the couple first registered their marriage in the United Kingdom on July 10, 1998. Sangeetha has been described as a UK citizen in the registration documents. The couple later conducted a ceremonial wedding in Chennai on August 25, 1999.
Allegations of Adultery and Cruelty
In her plea, Sangeetha has alleged that Vijay has been in an adulterous relationship with an actress since April 2021. She claimed that the relationship caused her severe emotional pain and mental suffering. According to her, it amounted to a betrayal of marital trust.
She further stated that Vijay initially assured her that he would end the alleged relationship. However, the relationship allegedly continued, leading to prolonged mental cruelty.
Attempts at Amicable Settlement
Sangeetha stated that she made several attempts to resolve the dispute amicably. However, no settlement could be reached between the parties. She also said that the issue was deferred for some time, keeping in mind the children’s studies and emotional well-being.
Alleged Neglect and Public Humiliation
The petition alleges that Vijay neglected her emotionally, mentally, and physically. She further claimed that he withdrew from conjugal relations and deliberately distanced himself from her.
Sangeetha also alleged that Vijay continued to travel abroad with the actress. She claimed that photographs of such trips were posted on social media. According to her, Vijay neither denied nor objected to those posts. She stated that the widely circulated images caused repeated humiliation to her and the children, leading to embarrassment and ongoing mental anguish.
Legal Grounds and Reliefs Sought
Sangeetha stated that she exchanged several legal notices through her counsel to resolve the dispute privately. However, she claimed that all efforts failed. As a result, she sought dissolution of marriage under Section 27(1)(a), (b), and (d) of the Special Marriage Act.
Along with divorce, she has sought the right of residence in the matrimonial home. She has also sought permanent alimony commensurate with Vijay’s income and social standing.
Request for Privacy and Media Restraint
Citing the sensitivity of the matter and the public profile of the parties, Sangeetha has requested in-camera proceedings to protect her privacy. She has also sought an interim injunction restraining media houses from hosting, interviewing, or publishing any material related to the proceedings.
