The Karnataka High Court has dismissed a habeas corpus petition filed by a mother seeking a psychiatric evaluation of her adult daughter, who had chosen to live with her partner against her family’s wishes.
The Division Bench of Justice Suraj Govindaraj and Justice K. Manmadha Rao refused to entertain the plea after interacting with the woman and finding that she was living with her partner voluntarily and was fully capable of making her own decisions. The mother had alleged that her daughter was under emotional influence and sought directions for her mental health assessment, claiming that her behaviour had drastically changed after entering the relationship.
During the hearing, the woman categorically told the Court that she had left her parental home of her own free will and wished to continue residing with her partner. She also opposed any attempt to subject her to psychiatric examination, asserting that she was mentally sound and acting independently.
The bench observed that an adult woman cannot be forced to return to her parents merely because they disapprove of her personal relationship or lifestyle choices. Stressing the importance of individual autonomy and personal liberty, the Court held that the right of a major person to choose a partner is protected under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The judges further noted that ordering a mental evaluation solely on the basis of parental disagreement would amount to an unwarranted invasion of privacy and dignity. The Court said there was nothing on record to suggest that the woman was under illegal detention or suffering from any mental incapacity.
Accordingly, the habeas corpus petition was dismissed, with the Court reiterating that constitutional courts must safeguard the decisional autonomy of consenting adults.
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