Introduction
The Chengalpattu Family Court has postponed the sensational divorce case involving Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and his wife Sangeetha Sornalingam to August 7. The high-profile matrimonial dispute, which has dominated media headlines and political discussions across Tamil Nadu, has once again been delayed.
On Monday, Vijay and Sangeetha were absent from court. Like the previous hearings, both parties failed to appear despite receiving summons, choosing instead to be represented by their respective lawyers. The repeated absence has further prolonged one of Tamil Nadu's most closely watched legal battles.
Key Details About the June 15 Hearing
Court Proceedings and Absence
On June 15, the Chengalpattu Family Court heard the case in the absence of both Vijay and Sangeetha, who were represented by their lawyers. Although the matter was taken up for hearing, there was no significant progress, and the court adjourned the proceedings.
This marked the second consecutive hearing where neither party appeared despite explicit court directions. During the earlier hearing on April 20, the court had instructed both parties to appear personally on June 15, but they failed to comply.
Video Conferencing Request Rejected
Earlier, a request seeking permission to attend the hearing through video conferencing was filed, citing security concerns and public profile as reasons. However, the court rejected the plea and directed both parties to furnish their official email IDs for future communication.
Background of the Divorce Case
When the Petition Was Filed
Sangeetha Sornalingam filed a divorce petition before the Chengalpattu Family Court under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, citing irreconcilable differences. She also sought maintenance, along with permanent residence rights in the matrimonial home located in Neelankarai.
Marriage Timeline
The couple was legally married in the United Kingdom on July 10, 1999, with their marriage registered there. A traditional wedding ceremony was later held in Chennai on August 25, 1999. After nearly 26–27 years of marriage, Sangeetha initiated divorce proceedings.
Children and Family
The couple has two children:
Jason Sanjay (son)
Divya Sasha (daughter)
Allegations and Claims in the Divorce Petition
Extramarital Relationship Allegations
According to the petition filed under the Special Marriage Act, Sangeetha alleged that Vijay was involved in an extramarital relationship, causing her mental cruelty and emotional distress. The petition claims she became aware in 2021 that Vijay was allegedly involved with an unnamed actress.
Reconciliation Attempts Failed
The petition further states that the couple made several attempts to reconcile between August 2024 and February 2025. Their last meeting on November 9, 2025, reportedly ended without any resolution. Sangeetha stated that the marriage had "broken down beyond repair" and existed only on paper.
Additional Allegations
Sangeetha also alleged that Vijay:
Continued his relationship despite assuring her it would end.
Travelled, attended parties, and went on holidays with the alleged partner.
Caused emotional distress to her and their children by sharing photographs on social media, leading to embarrassment.
Who is Sangeetha Sornalingam?
Sangeetha Sornalingam belongs to a Sri Lankan Tamil family settled in London. She is the daughter of businessman Sornalingam and spent most of her childhood in the United Kingdom.
According to reports, she became a fan of Vijay after watching Poove Unakkaga, travelled to Chennai to meet him, and the two eventually fell in love before getting married.
Political Significance of the Case
The divorce proceedings have attracted exceptional attention because C. Joseph Vijay currently serves as:
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister (since May 2026)
President of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)
Given Vijay's transition from actor to politician and now Chief Minister, every development in the case has become a subject of intense political debate and media scrutiny.
What to Expect on August 7
The next hearing, scheduled for August 7, is expected to provide greater clarity regarding the future course of the case.
The court is likely to:
Examine whether both parties have complied with previous directions.
Hear additional submissions regarding maintenance, alimony, and property division.
Decide whether the matter should proceed further, be settled, or be adjourned again.
Political observers and the media are expected to closely monitor the proceedings.
Conclusion
The Chengalpattu Family Court's decision to adjourn the Vijay–Sangeetha divorce case to August 7 adds another chapter to one of Tamil Nadu's most high-profile matrimonial disputes. With both parties repeatedly absent from court and the request for virtual appearance rejected, the case continues to attract widespread public and political attention.
The upcoming hearing on August 7 could play a crucial role in determining the future direction of the proceedings. As the legal battle unfolds, the people of Tamil Nadu, political analysts, and the media will continue to watch the case closely.
Related Reading
- Special Marriage Act, 1954 - Legal Framework
- Chengalpattu District Courts Official Website
- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay Official Profile
- TVK Party Official Website
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