Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.Pc) in India provides for the payment of maintenance by a husband to his wife, children, or parents who are unable to maintain themselves. Despite the nature of maintenance being essentially civil, Section 125 is included in the Cr.Pc for several reasons: Expediency: Including maintenance provisions in the Criminal Procedure Code makes it more accessible and expeditious for the aggrieved parties to seek relief. The Cr.Pc has well-established procedures for the enforcement of orders, and it allows for a summary and faster process compared to civil courts, ensuring quicker relief for those in need. Social Welfare: The inclusion of maintenance provisions in the Criminal Procedure Code is in line with the social welfare approach of the Indian legal system. It recognizes the duty of a person to maintain his or her dependents and ensures that they are not left without support, even if the person responsible fails to fulfill their obligation voluntarily. Effective Enforcement: The Cr.Pc empowers the criminal courts to enforce maintenance orders effectively. If a person fails to comply with the maintenance order, criminal courts have the authority to take appropriate action, including the arrest and detention of the defaulter, if necessary. Deterring Non-Compliance: By making maintenance a part of criminal law, it serves as a deterrent against defaulters who might otherwise refuse to pay maintenance. The fear of legal consequences under criminal law can prompt individuals to fulfill their obligations. Limited Resources: In some cases, the person seeking maintenance may not have the means to engage in prolonged civil litigation. Including maintenance provisions in the Cr.Pc allows them to approach the court without excessive financial burdens. It is essential to note that while Section 125 falls under the Criminal Procedure Code, its nature remains essentially civil. The objective of this inclusion is to provide a more accessible and effective remedy for those seeking maintenance, rather than suggesting that maintenance itself is a criminal offense.