Supreme Court Issues Lookout Circular in Cross-Border Custody Dispute
The Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stance in a high-profile cross-border custody dispute involving Victoria Basu, a Russian national, and her Indian husband, Saikat Basu. The apex court issued a lookout circular for Victoria Basu, who is accused of taking her five-year-old son and disappearing amid ongoing divorce proceedings. The court has also directed the Ministry of External Affairs and the Home Ministry to collaborate with border agencies to seize the woman’s passport and prevent her from leaving the country.
Urgent Action Ordered by the Court
A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi expressed deep concern over the disappearance of the child, who was under the mother’s care as per the custody agreement. The court ordered the Delhi Police to immediately locate the mother and child, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
The court also showed frustration with Victoria Basu’s legal counsel, who claimed not to know her whereabouts. Justice Kant remarked sharply, “You people know everything… you think you can play with us? We will take counsel also to task… You wait.” This statement reflected the court’s growing impatience with what it perceived as evasiveness.
Allegations of Embassy Involvement
According to submissions made by Saikat Basu, his estranged wife was last seen on July 7, allegedly entering the Russian Embassy in New Delhi through a back entrance. She was accompanied by a diplomat and carrying luggage. He fears that she and the child may have fled India with assistance from embassy officials.
Saikat Basu also alleged that Victoria Basu may be involved in a personal relationship with a Russian Embassy official. While the court has not confirmed the identity of the official, it has directed the Ministry of External Affairs to seek permission from the Russian authorities to search the diplomat’s residence in Delhi.
FSB Background Adds Complexity
Further complicating the case is the revelation that Victoria Basu’s father is reportedly a retired officer of the FSB, Russia’s federal intelligence service. This has raised concerns about potential diplomatic interference in a private custody matter. Indian authorities are now scrutinizing the situation closely, especially given the involvement of a foreign intelligence agency.
Next Steps and Ongoing Investigations
The high-profile case is set for its next hearing on Friday, as police and intelligence agencies work urgently to trace the missing child and determine whether Victoria Basu has fled the country under diplomatic cover.
Victoria and Saikat Basu met while working in China and married in India in 2017. Their divorce proceedings are currently being handled in a family court in Delhi’s Saket. The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the complexities of international custody disputes and the challenges faced by courts in ensuring the safety and well-being of children involved in such cases.
