Respondent faces contempt proceedings for obstructing custody handover, causing distress to minor child.
In a significant development, the Bombay High Court, presided over by Justice Ashwin D. Bhobe, has issued a notice of contempt against Shubhranshu Kumar for failing to comply with the Family Court's orders regarding the custody and access of his minor daughter. The contempt petition was filed by Priyanka Jayprakash Hardikar, the petitioner, alleging that the respondent, Shubhranshu Kumar, did not adhere to the Family Court's directives dated December 23 and 24, 2025, which granted her temporary custody and access to their daughter during the Christmas vacation.
The Family Court had initially ordered that the petitioner be allowed access to the child from December 24, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The order also mandated that the respondent bring the child to court on December 24, 2025, to facilitate the handover. However, the petitioner alleged that the respondent and his family intentionally obstructed this process, causing severe emotional distress to the child.
The Court Commissioner, appointed to oversee the custody transfer, submitted a report confirming the respondent's obstruction. The report highlighted that the respondent's actions were deliberate and coordinated, resulting in the child's visible distress and unwillingness to part from her father due to psychological pressure.
Justice Bhobe, taking note of the urgency and the welfare of the minor child, issued a contempt notice to the respondent, returnable on the same day, December 30, 2025. The court emphasized the necessity of addressing such disobedience urgently, given the involvement of a minor's welfare.
Advocate Ms. Firoza Daruwala, representing the petitioner, argued that the respondent's actions were aimed at defeating the petitioner's rights granted by the Family Court. The court recognized the prima facie case of disobedience and issued the contempt notice accordingly.
The case underscores the importance of adhering to court orders, especially in matters involving the welfare of children. The legal proceedings highlight the judiciary's commitment to ensuring that the rights of parties, particularly concerning minor children, are upheld and enforced promptly.
Bottom Line:
Contempt Petition filed due to failure of respondent to comply with Family Court's orders regarding custody and access to minor child.
Statutory provision(s): Contempt of Courts Act, 1971
Priyanka Jayprakash Hardikar v. Shubhranshu Kumar, (Bombay) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2833383
