The Kerala High Court has protected an adult woman’s choice to live away from her family, directing that neither her parents nor police may compel her to return while a missing-person inquiry is completed.
Judge / Bench — Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas.
In the anonymised case, decided on 26 September 2026, the petitioner said she left her parental and matrimonial homes voluntarily and wished to continue her studies. The court asked her to appear before the investigating officer between 10am and 11am on 6 October, record her wishes, and cooperate with the investigation. Police were directed to complete the inquiry and report to the Magistrate.
Advocates appearing — For the petitioner — V.A. Johnson (Varikkappallil). For the State and respondents — Laya Mary Joseph, Government Pleader.