Dismissing a habeas corpus writ petition, the Allahabad High Court has ruled that parents cannot turn to such petitions to force an adult daughter to live with them against her wishes.
The judge dismissed a habeas corpus petition filed by Kalawati Devi who sought the production of her 25-year-old daughter Kumari Pooja before the court, holding that the daughter — being a major and a competent person — shall remain at liberty to reside at the place, and with the person, of her choice.
In pursuance of the court order, the daughter was produced in court. During her interaction with the court, Pooja stated that she is residing independently in Delhi of her own volition and is not in any illegal or unlawful detention. After interacting with the daughter and considering her statement, the court held that she is a major and has consciously and voluntarily expressed unwillingness to reside with her mother, and dismissed the petition.
On August 17, 2026, the court directed the state to produce her.
As per facts of the case, Kalawati Devi had filed a habeas corpus writ petition seeking directions for the production of her daughter before the high court.
