What happens if maintenance is not paid?

A maintenance order isn't just words on paper, it's enforceable like any court decree. If the paying spouse defaults, the recipient can approach the court for execution, which can lead to attachment of the defaulter's property or salary. Under the BNSS (Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita) route specifically, non-payment can even lead to imprisonment of up to one month, or until the amount is paid, whichever is earlier.