The answer is: C
Explanation
The correct option is:
C: Section 18 (2) (a) of Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act
Explanation:
Section 18 of the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956 deals with the provision for maintenance of wife. Subsection (2) lists various circumstances under which a Hindu wife is entitled to live separately from her husband and claim maintenance. Among these circumstances, option (a) of Section 18 (2) states:
"(a) if he is guilty of desertion, that is to say, of abandoning her without reasonable cause and without her consent or against her wish, or willfully neglecting her;"
In the scenario described, where the Hindu wife has been living with her children and raising them without any assistance or help from the husband for many years, it could be argued that the husband is guilty of willfully neglecting the wife. Therefore, under Section 18 (2) (a), the wife may be entitled to live separately and claim maintenance from the husband.