Overview
- A Division Bench of Justices Dr. T. Amarnath Goud and S. Datta Purkayastha issued the ruling on February 4, 2026.
- The court allowed the mother's habeas corpus plea and directed state authorities to ensure the child's safe return to Tripura.
- A DNA report from the State Forensic Science Laboratory confirmed the petitioner as the child's biological mother.
- CMC Vellore reported suspected abuse that led to a POCSO case and CWC placement at Hope House, while the mother alleged medical negligence and denial of access.
- The bench exercised parens patriae jurisdiction, emphasized that 'the child is not a chattel or a ball,' and noted non-cooperation reports as well as a virtual interaction finding the child cheerful and alert.