The Court noted that the adopted daughter was no longer a child and had recently turned 18 years old.
The Court was told that she was presently living at a women’s home after her adoptive parents “abandoned” her and that she wished to return to Punjab, from where she was adopted.
The Court expressed concern that since the girl had reached the age of adulthood (18 years), there was uncertainty about which provisions could be invoked to ensure her safety in future.
“Even though the girl wants to return, this Court is not aware how it can be ordered when her protection and safety cannot be guaranteed, if she is outside the territorial jurisdiction. A larger issue also arises as to how the girl is to be protected in future, particularly keeping in mind her career and even marriage in her later life,” the Court pointed out.
Therefore, it appointed Parvathy Menon as amicus curiae to assist the Court.
Additionally, government pleader Vidya Kuriakose was directed to consult the Department of Women and Child Welfare to get suggestions on securing the well-being of the girl to ensure that she lives a full life ahead.
Source: Barandbench
