Supreme Court agrees to dissolve J&K CM Omar Abdullah's marriage with estranged wife
The Supreme Court of India has granted a divorce to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his estranged wife, Payal Abdullah, using its special powers under Article 142. The decision follows a mutual settlement between the parties after years of legal proceedings.
Why it matters
The case highlights the use of the Supreme Court's extraordinary powers to resolve long-standing personal disputes when lower courts fail to reach a final resolution.
The Supreme Court on Friday (July 31, 2026) agreed to dissolve the marriage of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah with his estranged wife Payal Abdullah after taking note of their submissions that they have "embraced freedom".
The apex court took note of the submissions of senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the National Conference leader, that an application has been filed under Article 142 of the Constitution seeking dissolution of marriage as the parties have settled the matter.
"We will make it a part of our order and will dispose of it in terms of that," a Bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe said.
"Both of them have embraced freedom. It's all settled. (Article) 142 filed. Your lordships may grant divorce," Mr. Sibal told the Bench.
"When did this application come on record?" the bench asked.
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