The Supreme Court on Friday highlighted its reluctance to issue orders straining India-Russia relations while addressing the disappearance of Russian national Victoria Basu and her four-year-old son amid a custody dispute with Indian husband Saikat Basu. Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi emphasized: “We don’t want to impact bilateral ties, but this involves a vulnerable child.” The bench extended a two-week deadline for authorities to obtain concrete information from Russian officials.

Government submissions revealed Victoria likely exited India via the Nepal border and reached Russia, but the Russian Embassy has offered no assistance. The Ministry of External Affairs reported unsuccessful contacts through the Indian Embassy in Moscow, while Delhi Police queries to the Bank of Russia went unanswered. ASG Aishwarya Bhati noted personal diplomatic efforts hit a “roadblock,” underscoring challenges in cross-border data sharing.

The court asserted the child was under its protective custody during ongoing matrimonial proceedings, labeling the removal a “snatch” from judicial oversight. Victoria, in India since 2019 on an extended X-1 visa, defied court directives. The bench expressed concerns over potential trafficking or exploitation, hoping the boy remains safe but demanding verification.

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Delhi Police faced sharp criticism for “negligence,” with the court stating timely response to Saikat’s complaint could have prevented the escape. Warnings of severe accountability loomed if progress stalled, building on prior directives for Interpol involvement.

Amid the 25th anniversary of India-Russia strategic ties and Putin’s upcoming December visit, the case tests diplomatic finesse. Saikat remains uninformed about his son, as the court balances urgency with international comity.

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