National Times Bureau :- The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed PGIMER, Chandigarh, to conduct immediate counseling of a minor girl allegedly held in unlawful custody at Dera Sacha Sauda, Sirsa, by her mother. The order came while hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by the girl’s father, Cypriano Britto, a resident of Goa.
Justice Subhash Mehla stated that counseling must be carried out to assess the custody-related concerns and that a proper schedule be communicated to both parties’ counsels. The court also ordered that the entire cost of the counseling would be borne by the petitioner (father).
The petitioner alleged that his daughter has been illegally confined by her mother at the controversial Dera premises and that despite several custody orders, he has been unable to communicate freely with her due to the Dera’s interference, which prevented her from making an independent decision.
He requested that, under Section 12 of the Family Courts Act, 1984, the minor should undergo counseling with a qualified child psychologist to assess her welfare, emotional state, and best interests.
Dera Sacha Sauda, in its defense, argued that no specific allegations or relief were sought against the institution in the petition and urged the court to dismiss it.
The court, however, instructed PGIMER-appointed counselors to submit a detailed report post-counseling, including their opinion—after interacting with both parents if needed—on whether the minor is capable of understanding her well-being and deciding whom she wishes to stay with.
The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for September 9.
