Supreme Court Intervenes in International Custody Dispute

In a rare and complex child custody case, the Supreme Court of India has intervened by directing the External Affairs and Home ministries to issue look-out notices for a Russian woman, Victoria Basu. She is alleged to have absconded with her five-year-old son, who she shares with her Indian husband, Saikat Basu. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the situation, as it involves international jurisdictions and diplomatic sensitivities.

Immediate Action Required by Authorities

A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi has instructed the Delhi Police to expedite efforts to locate the missing child and return him to his father. The urgency of the matter is highlighted by the court’s directive to seize Ms. Basu’s passport and monitor all airports and ports to prevent any potential escape from India.

Concerns Over Legal Representation

The court expressed skepticism regarding the conduct of Ms. Basu’s legal counsel, who claimed ignorance of her whereabouts. Justice Kant’s remarks indicated a strong stance against any perceived obfuscation by legal representatives, emphasizing accountability in legal proceedings.

Allegations of Diplomatic Involvement

Mr. Basu has raised concerns about his estranged wife’s alleged connections with the Russian embassy in Delhi. He reported seeing her entering the embassy through a back gate with luggage, accompanied by an embassy official. This has led to suspicions that she may have received assistance in leaving India. The court has requested the External Affairs Ministry to seek permission to search the residence of the involved embassy official.

Background of the Custody Agreement

The custody arrangement allowed Ms. Basu to have their son for three days each week. However, Mr. Basu last saw his son on May 22, raising fears that Ms. Basu may have violated this agreement. The couple’s relationship began in China, where Mr. Basu worked as an engineer before they married in India in 2017.

Potential International Implications

The case is further complicated by Ms. Basu’s familial connections; her father is reportedly a retired officer with Russia’s FSB intelligence agency. This adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate legal battle that spans international borders.