Punjab and Haryana High Court Addresses Welfare of Infant Amidst Drug Crisis

Court Satisfied with Child's Care; Orders State to Tackle Drug Problem

In a significant judgment passed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, the welfare of a 5½-month-old infant, whose parents are currently incarcerated, was thoroughly assessed. The court has expressed satisfaction regarding the care provided to the child by the state authorities, while simultaneously directing the State of Punjab to actively engage in addressing the prevalent drug issue within the region.

The case, titled Labh Singh v. State of Punjab, involved a Public Interest Litigation concerning the welfare of the infant, who is residing at Shri Anant Anaath Ashram, a registered Special Adoption Agency under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. The court, presided by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry, reviewed the detailed reports filed by the District Child Protection Officer, Mansa, and the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sub Division Budhlada, affirming the adequacy of the care being provided to the child.

The court granted liberty to the petitioner, Labh Singh, to raise grievances if the care provided to the child was found deficient in any manner. This ensures ongoing accountability and vigilance towards the child's well-being.

Beyond the immediate concerns of child welfare, the court highlighted the broader issue of drug addiction affecting the community. It directed the State of Punjab to submit a comprehensive para-wise reply within three weeks, detailing efforts made by state functionaries to involve Drug De-Addiction Centres, particularly for the parents of the infant. This directive underlines the court’s commitment to a holistic approach in tackling the drug problem, which has been a persistent issue in Punjab.

The judgment emphasizes the need for concerted efforts from the state machinery to address both the micro-level concerns of individual welfare and the macro-level challenges posed by drug addiction. The court's order reflects a balanced approach, ensuring that immediate care needs are met while also seeking long-term solutions to systemic issues.

The next hearing of the case is scheduled for December 10, 2025, where further developments regarding the state's efforts to combat drug addiction are expected to be reviewed.

Bottom Line:

Welfare of an infant child whose parents are in jail and efforts to address the drug problem in Punjab.

Statutory provision(s): Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

Labh Singh v. State of Punjab, (Punjab And Haryana)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2812639