Supreme Court Grants Father's Custody of Minor Daughter

The Supreme Court of India has ruled in favor of a father, Gautam Kumar Das, granting him custody of his minor daughter from his sisters-in-law, who had been caring for the child temporarily after the mother's death during the Covid-19 pandemic. The court emphasized that the child's welfare is paramount and stated that temporary custody does not deprive the natural guardian of their rights. The father had initially entrusted the child to his sisters-in-law due to his grief after losing both his wife and father. However, after seeking custody, the sisters-in-law refused to return the child, prompting legal action. The court determined that the father was fit to care for the child and noted that the natural family should always be preferred. Visitation rights were granted to the sisters-in-law to maintain their relationship with the child.