This discussion addresses whether a husband can request to merge his Section 9 HMA petition with his wife's Section 125 CrPC maintenance case and deny interim maintenance. While the cases may be heard together if filed in the same court, they cannot be legally clubbed due to their differing nature and reliefs sought. Generally, maintenance must be paid unless the wife deserted without cause, but this depends on case specifics. It is advised to consult a legal professional for personalised guidance.