Summary of this article
Andhra Pradesh HC allowed wife access to husband’s bank account
Court cited medical incapacity and ongoing treatment expenses
Case highlights importance of financial and legal preparedness
A woman from Andhra Pradesh’s YSR Kadapa district has secured permission from the Andhra Pradesh High Court to access her husband’s bank account after a serious medical condition left him unable to manage his own financial affairs.
The order was passed on April 6, 2026, after the 59-year-old woman approached the high court seeking access to funds for medical treatment and family expenses. According to court records, her 65-year-old husband underwent brain surgery at a hospital in Hyderabad after suffering a severe neurological condition.
However, despite operations and continuous treatment, his condition reportedly did not improve and he continues to remain bedridden, requiring medical support for breathing and feeding.
Wife Moved Court To Access Funds
In her petition, the woman said that she had exhausted her personal savings while covering treatment costs and day-to-day household expenses. The couple also has two children, adding to the financial burden on the family.
Her husband reportedly owns certain properties and has around Rs 14.38 lakh in an Axis Bank account. Since the account was solely in his name, she was unable to access those funds without legal authorisation.
She then approached the high court seeking appointment as her husband’s guardian so that she could use the money for treatment and other essential expenses.
Court Relied On Medical Records
While hearing the matter, Justice Venkateswarlu Nimmagadda referred to medical certificates issued by rehabilitation centres and hospitals. The records stated that the man was unable to take independent financial decisions because of his medical condition.
The court observed that when a person loses the ability to manage personal and financial affairs due to serious illness, a spouse may be the most suitable person to act on their behalf. The judgment also referred to the concept of “Ardhangini”, describing the wife as the other half of the husband in Indian philosophical thought.
HC Rejects State’s Objection
The Andhra Pradesh government argued that the issue was civil in nature and should be heard by a civil court instead of the high court. However, the high court rejected the objection and held that approaching the court under Article 226 was justified in such circumstances.
The court ultimately permitted the woman to operate the bank account and directed her to submit updated account statements or passbook details every three months for one year or until any major medical development takes place.
FAQs
Can a spouse access a bank account during medical incapacity?
Usually, legal authorisation or court permission may be required.What happens if bank accounts are held in one person’s name?
Family members may face difficulties accessing funds during emergencies.Can a court appoint a guardian for an incapacitated person?
Yes, courts can appoint guardians in certain medical and legal situations.Why are joint accounts and nominees important?
They can help families access money more easily during emergencies.Can medical records be used in such court cases?
Yes, courts often rely on hospital and medical certificates as evidence.
