Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai
Chennai, Jun 15: The Chengalpattu Family Welfare Court on Monday heard the divorce proceedings involving Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leader C Joseph Vijay and his wife Sangeetha Vijay, and adjourned the matter to August 7 for the next hearing.
The case has attracted considerable public attention amid recent speculation about a possible reconciliation between the couple. Reports had suggested that discussions were underway regarding whether the court proceedings would take place virtually or through a personal appearance.
Earlier in March, Sangeetha Vijay moved the District Court in Chengalpattu seeking permission to continue residing in the family's Neelankarai residence in Chennai until the divorce proceedings are concluded.
The application, filed on February 22 under the provisions of the Special Marriage Act, 1954, forms part of her main divorce petition. Along with seeking dissolution of the marriage, Sangeetha has sought permanent alimony and the right to remain in the Neelankarai residence until the case is decided or until she is provided with alternative accommodation of a similar standard.
In her petition, Sangeetha stated that she and Vijay have been married for 26 years and have two children — Jason Sanjay (25) and Dhivya Sasha (20). She said she dedicated herself to managing the household and raising the children while living according to Vijay’s lifestyle throughout their marriage.
She further argued that she does not possess another residence that offers a comparable standard of living. The petition also highlighted Vijay’s status as a leading actor-turned-politician and founder of TVK, a party recognised by the Election Commission of India.
According to the filing, Sangeetha initially attempted to resolve the matter amicably before approaching the court. However, those efforts did not succeed. She also alleged that Vijay’s legal representatives informed her that she would not be permitted to continue residing in the Neelankarai home if she proceeded with the divorce case.
Sangeetha, a UK citizen with a degree in biomedical science, told the court that she currently has no suitable alternative accommodation. She has therefore requested an interim order allowing her to continue residing in the Neelankarai property with all existing facilities until a final verdict is delivered.
The Neelankarai residence remains closely associated with Vijay’s public and political life, adding further prominence to the ongoing legal proceedings. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for August 7.