Background
The applicant, a widow, approached the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) office, seeking assistance to resolve conflicts within her family. She shared her struggles with her eldest son (respondent) and his wife, who were not treating her well and refusing to provide financial help for the marriage of her younger son and daughter. The applicant highlighted that after her husband’s passing, the responsibility of the household fell solely on her.

The applicant also stated that there were frequent disputes between her eldest son and daughter-in-law, which caused emotional strain for everyone in the household. She expressed that she felt harassed despite having allowed the respondent to live in her house. She demanded either the respondent live according to her house rules and take responsibility as the eldest sibling or vacate her house.

Initial Intervention
During the first session, the applicant was visibly upset and expressed her concerns loudly. The counsellor advised her to remain calm for effective dialogue and provided information about affordable healthcare services through Jan Aushadhi Kendra for her asthma. It was suggested that the entire family sit together to discuss and resolve the matter.
A legal notice was sent to the respondent, requiring his presence at the DLSA office.

Counselling Sessions

1. Understanding the Problem:
Both parties attended the sessions and were encouraged to share their perspectives. The applicant highlighted her struggles in managing the household and emphasized the need for financial support. The respondent acknowledged his responsibilities but stated that he was unable to provide a large sum immediately due to his financial commitments toward his nuclear family.

2. Identifying Key Issues:
The counselling sessions revealed a lack of mutual care, security, and attention among the family members. Miscommunication and unresolved grievances had contributed to the ongoing conflicts.

3. Family Participation:
Other family members were invited to participate in subsequent sessions, enabling a more holistic approach to the family’s issues. Economic, social, and emotional challenges were openly discussed, fostering a better understanding of each party’s concerns.

4. Reaching an Agreement:
The respondent committed to fulfilling his role as the eldest sibling. He provided a written affidavit agreeing to contribute a specific percentage of the marriage expenses for his younger siblings and ensure his mother’s legitimate needs were met. This affidavit was submitted as a trust document.

Outcome
Over four counseling sessions, the family dynamic improved significantly:
The respondent began respecting his mother and engaging positively in household matters.
Financial support for the younger siblings’ marriages was arranged as per the agreement.
The applicant’s health improved with access to services like Mohalla Clinics, widow pension schemes, and support from old-age care institutions.
In the final session, the applicant expressed satisfaction with the resolution, stating that her son’s behavior had improved and peace had been restored in the family. Preparations for the younger children’s marriages were underway without any further disputes.

Case Closure
The applicant requested to close the case, expressing gratitude to the DLSA team for their guidance and support. She stated that her household was now harmonious, and she felt more secure and supported.

Conclusion
This case highlights the effectiveness of family counseling in addressing and resolving complex domestic disputes. By fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and accountability, the DLSA successfully helped this family restore peace and unity, allowing them to move forward with their lives.