**Supreme Court Orders Look-Out Circular for Russian Woman in Custody Dispute**
The Supreme Court of India has mandated the government to issue a look-out circular for Victoria Basu, a Russian woman reportedly evading authorities with her four-and-a-half-year-old son amid a contentious child custody battle with her estranged Indian husband, Saikat Basu. The court has instructed the Delhi Police Commissioner to locate both Victoria and her son and submit a status report by 2 PM on Friday, July 18. Victoria has been untraceable since July 7.
During a recent hearing, Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi reviewed Victoria Basu’s case and requested a detailed report from the Delhi Police. The court also urged the Russian embassy to assist in the investigation. This directive follows Saikat Basu’s plea, who has been seeking custody of their child as divorce proceedings are ongoing in a family court.
Initially, the Supreme Court had ruled that the child should reside with the father for 20 hours a day, allowing the mother four hours of custody. This arrangement was set for two months. Subsequently, the court modified its order, permitting the mother to have custody for three days a week, with the father retaining custody for the remaining four days.
However, when Saikat Basu was unable to secure custody from Victoria earlier this month, he filed an application with the Supreme Court, expressing concern over their disappearance. Reports indicate that Saikat claimed to have seen Victoria entering the Russian Embassy in Delhi with luggage, accompanied by an embassy official, raising fears that they may have left India.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to continue its hearing on this matter on Friday, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
**FAQ**
*What is the current status of the custody case involving Victoria Basu?*
The Supreme Court has ordered a look-out circular for Victoria Basu and her son, directing the Delhi Police to locate them and report back by July 18.
