SATPAL SINGH Vs. GURMEET KALRA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) PARTIES to this Appeal married in 1990. Out of the wedlock, they have a daughter Harleen. Unfortunately, their matrimonial tie could not last long and it culminated into a divorce in 1992. Sometime in 1996, father of the child Satpal Singh initiated proceedings before the Family Court for custody of the child. It was rejected on the ground that he has not incurred any expenses towards the maintenance of the child and he has remarried. But the second marriage too is in turmoil. Original Petitioner husband, therefore, came in Appeal.

(2.) WE have heard him in person and the learned counsel for the respondents at length. It is reported that several proceedings are pending against Shri Satpal Singh. Mentally he is somewhat upset. Moreover, the child, as reported, is only six years old. In view of this, it would neither be expedient nor in the welfare of the child to hand over custody of the child to the petitioner in the situation as prevailing. However, he would be entitled to meet the child once a week, preferably on Saturdays between 6.00 to 7.00 in the evening at the residence of the respondent or at any other place mutually agreeable to both the parties. The respondent-mother shall render all necessary cooperation in this regard. With this, the Appeal and other connected applications are disposed of.