Supreme Court Encourages Amicable Dialogue Between Estranged Couple in Custody Dispute.


17 September 2025 Child Custody >> Family Law  

The Supreme Court of India, on the 17th day of September, 2025, adopted a conciliatory stance in a pending matrimonial case between Kripal Singh and Harpreet Kaur Reena, arising from an appeal by the High Court of Jharkhand.


The case, pending before a Bench of Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice S.V.N. Bhatti, was about matters pertaining to the estranged couple's relationship with their son. Both parents came in person during the hearing, their counsels pointing them out before the Court. Importantly, their son also accompanied them, thus allowing a more straightforward debate within the courtroom.


 
 
   
Upon hearing the arguments and dealing with the parties, the Bench observed that both parties appeared to be ready to communicate with one another freely and constructively. A suggestion was made by the petitioner, Kripal Singh, that he be permitted to see his wife and son on every Saturday at a time and place convenient to both the parties. This was accepted by the respondent, Harpreet Kaur.

Documenting this agreement, the Court ordered that such interactions must be conducted weekly, without the presence of extended family members, friends, or third parties. It was made express by the Bench that only the husband, wife, and their son would engage in these meetings.

The Supreme Court also set the case for consideration on December 12, 2025, and impressed upon it that it would be the duty of the petitioner to report to the court the developments of these weekly sessions. The respondent was also given permission to put in her own version of how the exercise was carried out.

In finalizing its order, the Bench noted that both sides had consented to negotiate without preconditions and underscored the need to approach the process with an open mind. The path of the Court highlights its persistent effort in family disputes to encourage dialogue, reconciliation, and the best interests of children above long-drawn litigation.