Bengaluru AI Engineer’s Mother Seeks Custody Of Grandson, Files Habeas Corpus Petition

The mother of Bengaluru-based AI engineer Atul Subhash, who tragically took his own life on December 9, has filed a habeas corpus petition in the Supreme Court seeking the custody of her grandson, Vyom. In response to the petition, the Supreme Court has issued notices to the governments of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Karnataka, requesting their replies. A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice N Kotiswar Singh will hear the case on January 7.

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Atul Subhash’s mother, Anju Modi, has requested the Supreme Court to grant her custody of Vyom, her grandson, citing concerns for the child’s safety. According to the petition, Vyom’s mother, Nikita Singhania, and her family have not disclosed the child’s whereabouts. The petition highlights the fact that Nikita Singhania, currently in judicial custody, has left her son in an unsafe environment, further exacerbating the concern that the Singhania family is obstructing efforts to locate the child. Anju Modi argues that Vyom should be allowed to live with his grandparents for his well-being.

Legal Demands For Dowry Harassment Cases And Investigation Procedures

The petition also raises issues related to dowry harassment cases. Anju Modi has called for all dowry harassment cases to be heard together in the same court. She also suggests that if the plaintiff resides elsewhere, the court should conduct hearings via video conferencing. Additionally, her petition advocates for introducing a provision for preliminary investigations before filing an FIR in dowry harassment and sexual violence cases.

Background: Atul Subhash’s Tragic Death And Allegations Of Harassment

Atul Subhash, originally from Samastipur in Bihar, committed suicide on December 9. In an emotional 80-minute video and a 24-page suicide note, Atul accused his wife, Nikita Singhania, and her family of harassment, which he cited as the primary reason for his decision to end his life. After his death, authorities registered a case of abetment to suicide against Nikita Singhania, her mother Nisha, her brother Anurag, and her uncle Sushil Singhania. Atul had claimed that his wife and her family had subjected him to constant harassment, including filing false cases against him.

As of now, Nikita Singhania, her mother Nisha Singhania, and her brothers Anurag and Sushil are all in judicial custody. The case continues to draw attention, especially with the Supreme Court’s involvement in addressing the custody of Vyom and the broader legal concerns surrounding dowry harassment and related issues.