10 June 2024 Child Custody >> Family Law  

A recent court order has determined visitation rights for a minor child caught in a custody dispute between her parents. The five-and-a-half-year-old girl, Ananya Ziva Menon, currently resides with her mother in India. The father, however, sought visitation rights while visiting India for a two-week period.

While the broader custody case remains unresolved, the court prioritized the child's right to maintain a relationship with both parents. The judge granted the father visitation during his stay in India, with specific safeguards in place.

The court ordered supervised visits to take place at a hotel located near the mother's residence. This ensures the child remains familiar with her surroundings and minimizes disruption. The specific dates allocated for visitation include weekends and weekdays during the father's visit.

To ensure the child's safety, the court mandated the father surrender his passport to the authorities during the visitation period. Additionally, he is prohibited from taking the child outside of Mumbai. Notably, the court also required the father to arrange accommodation for the mother at the same hotel for the duration of the visits. This facilitates the mother's involvement and promotes a sense of normalcy for the child.

This case highlights the court's primary concern for the child's well-being. By prioritizing visitation rights while ensuring safety measures, the court aims to maintain a connection between the child and both parents amidst a complex custody situation.