Roobini v. The Superintendent of Police
Habeas Corpus – Child custody – Natural guardianship
Case brief
What is this about?
Madras High Court, H.C.P.No.117 of 2026, decided 23.01.2026 (Coram: P.Velmurugan and M.Jothiraman, JJ.; order authored by P.Velmurugan, J.). Mother's habeas corpus petition for custody of minor children Riyan Joshva (5) and Rayelyn Anah (2), allegedly held illegally by paternal uncles Gnanraj and Selvakumar; children actually in father Ajay Ensteen Raj's custody. Court held both parents are natural guardians, hence no illegal custody; child welfare is paramount, evidence-dependent and outside writ jurisdiction; petitioner directed to pending civil suits IDOP.No.139 of 2026 (marital dissolution) and GWOP No.73 of 2026 (custody). Disposition: dismissed with liberty to pursue lawful remedies. Keywords: habeas corpus, child custody, natural guardian, welfare of the child, Article 226, writ jurisdiction, Puducherry police, family dispute.
What did the court decide?
No custody relief granted; petitioner given liberty to work out her remedy in the manner known to law.