Punjab and Haryana HC Rules Habeas Corpus Not a Substitute for Child Guardianship Proceedings

The Punjab and Haryana High Court ruled that habeas corpus petitions cannot replace guardianship proceedings in child custody disputes. Justice Rupinderjit Chahal dismissed a father's plea to recover his six-month-old daughter, affirming that custody with the mother, the natural guardian, is lawful unless contradicted by a legal order. The court noted habeas corpus is intended for unlawful detention cases and may grant temporary custody but lacks the detailed welfare inquiry central to guardianship cases.