The Mandated Role of the Police

A standardised child-access framework

The legal feature discusses the Calcutta High Court’s Child Access and Custody Guidelines and Parenting Plan 2025, adopted by an order dated 23 September 2025 for West Bengal and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It explains the need for a framework that places children’s rights and welfare at the centre of custody disputes.

The police role

The article identifies police responsibilities that include assisting with child visitation and handovers, enforcing custody and visitation orders, reporting non-compliance to the Court, and taking prompt action where a child’s safety or welfare is at risk.

The child’s best interests

The feature draws on principles in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly the need to treat the child’s best interests as a primary consideration. It also highlights the importance of prompt investigation and careful handling of allegations of abuse.