The Allahabad High Court temporarily transferred custody of a five-year-old girl to her father, observing that she appeared “heavily tutored” and was being used as a “pawn” in her parents’ matrimonial dispute. The interim order was passed in a habeas corpus petition.
The Election Commission of India informed the Madras High Court that it is reviewing guidelines to strengthen restrictions on the use of children in election campaigns. The exercise follows allegations of minors being involved in political campaigning and electoral influence during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
The Delhi High Court said Aaj Tak, “probably in the zeal of securing higher TRPs,” violated the privacy and confidentiality rights of a child sexual abuse survivor, while upholding a Rs.5 lakh compensation order against the broadcaster.
A PIL before the Supreme Court seeks an independent judicial commission to frame constitutional safeguards against online misinformation. Filed under Article 32, the plea highlights risks from algorithm-driven content amplification, viral fake narratives and children’s social media access, arguing that existing laws lag behind digital challenges.
The Supreme Court criticised authorities over delays in a child adoption application, calling the issue bureaucratic red tape. A Bench led by Justice BV Nagarathna questioned CARA’s rejection of the maternal aunt’s plea, observing that a family member seeking adoption should not face unnecessary hurdles.
The Patna High Court granted bail to a 14-year-old boy accused in a POCSO case, holding institutional care should be a last resort. Justice Arun Kumar Jha said bail cannot be denied to a child in conflict with law without statutory grounds under the Juvenile Justice Act.
The Pune family court granted interim custody of a minor child to his Singapore-based father, observing that the child’s welfare would be better served in his care. The court noted alleged non-compliance with orders and stressed that custody must focus on the child’s best interests.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court rejected bail pleas of three juveniles accused in a sexual assault case involving a visually impaired minor girl. The Court noted that the victim identified the accused through their voices and observed that release would defeat justice.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered immediate restoration of custody of a seven-year-old girl to her mother, holding that the father could not retain custody without a court order. The Court noted the child’s wish to live with her mother.
The Supreme Court has ruled that psychological evaluation of a child should not be treated as a routine measure in custody disputes before Family Courts. The Court clarified that no assessment should be conducted if a psychologist’s report finds it unnecessary or undesirable for the child’s welfare.
