OMISHA MARAR Vs. PASSPORT AUTHORITY OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The facts leading to the filing of the present writ petition, as borne out from the pleadings and records, are that the marriage between the petitioner's parents was solemnized on 20/8/2005 and, owing to irreconcilable marital discord, the parties mutually agreed to dissolve their marriage in M.C. No.635/2025. In terms of the compromise arrived at between the parties, the marriage stands dissolved by a decree of divorce and the permanent custody of the minor petitioner, aged about 16 years, has been entrusted to the mother ? Smt. Bivra Marar. The father, while consenting to the said arrangement, has reserved only limited visitation rights, to be exercised in a manner that does not interfere with the education and welfare of the minor child.

(2.) The petitioner is presently studying in 10th standard at Bishop Cotton Girls' School, Bengaluru, and is an accomplished international Taekwondo athlete who has represented the country in several international competitions and secured laurels. The petitioner has now been selected to represent India in an international Taekwondo event scheduled to be held in China and, in furtherance of the same, has applied for renewal of her passport. However, the grievance of the petitioner is that the respondent?Passport Authorities are insisting upon the consent/signature of the father as a mandatory requirement for processing the application.

(3.) Heard the learned counsel appearing for the petitioner and the learned counsel appearing for the respondent?Passport Authority. Perused the material on record.