JAYALAKSHMI V. Vs. ADARSH PARTHAN

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The petitioner expresses deep anguish in the learned Family Court, North Paravur, having confined the financial assistance ordered to be given to her autistic child by the respondent - his father, to a mere Rs.10,000.00 per month.

(2.) Sri.Litto Varghese Palathingal - learned counsel for the petitioner, explained that the child is suffering from speech and behavioral issues; and has been subjected to necessary therapy for the last several years, which may have to continue for life or at least for the next decade or so; and hence that it is impossible for his client to suffer the huge costs for this, without support. He explained that the child was initially offered therapy at the National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (NIPMR), which is a Government institution; and that, after he showed considerable progress there, he was shifted home, to attend school nearby and to continue therapy - initially with "Jivadhara Institute of Neuro Development and Research" at Kalady and presently under Dr.Nimmy Joseph, who is consulting at "Najeeb's Child Care" which is also near home. He further explained that the child requires a full time specialised assistant who will require to be paid a minimum of Rs.30,000.00 to 35,000/- per month; and that, along with this, the cost of therapy and other attended expenses would escalate the expenses to as high as Rs.75,000.00 to 80,000/- per month. He, therefore, prayed that the impugned order be interfered with and the amount ordered by the learned Family Court be enhanced to a minimum of Rs.1,50,000.00 per month.

(3.) As luculent from the earlier interim orders issued in this case, the respondent - father has taken the position that he will be willing to pay all amounts required to the child, provided he is given necessary and specialised care at the "NIPMR". Sri.Jimmy George - learned counsel for the respondent, argued that, since the child has now been kept at home by the petitioner and offered therapy in a Centre which does not have any expertise or the necessary credentials, his client will not accede to the afore requested payment. He reiteratingly insisted that the child be shifted back to the "NIPMR"; and noticing this, we requisitioned the help of the Psychiatrist of the General Hospital, Ernakulam, to assist us, after assessing the child's condition. This was done through the order dtd. 21/2/2025.