In India, there are no specific laws that directly address parental alienation as a defined legal concept. However, cases involving parental alienation are typically dealt with under existing family laws, especially in matters of child custody, divorce, and guardianship. Courts have recognized parental alienation in some cases, particularly when it affects the welfare of the child. The key aspects include: Best Interest of the Child: Courts prioritize the best interest of the child in custody cases. If one parent is found to be alienating the child from the other parent, the court may view this as detrimental to the child’s welfare. The Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 and Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956 govern child custody matters and give courts the authority to decide custody based on the child’s welfare. Custody and Visitation Rights: If parental alienation is proven, the court may grant custody to the other parent or modify visitation rights. The court may ensure that the alienated parent gets adequate access to the child. Courts often appoint child psychologists or counselors to assess the child’s mental state and the nature of the relationship with both parents. Legal Recourse for Alienated Parents: The alienated parent can file a petition in family court seeking custody or enforcement of visitation rights. In extreme cases, where one parent obstructs the other parent’s access to the child, the alienated parent can seek a contempt of court order for violating custody or visitation agreements. Intervention by the Court: The court may order counseling for both the child and the parents to address and resolve issues related to alienation. Mediation is sometimes encouraged to ensure the child maintains a healthy relationship with both parents. Mental Health Considerations: Courts take the mental and emotional well-being of the child seriously. If parental alienation is causing psychological harm, the court may take corrective steps, including modifying custody arrangements or issuing warnings to the alienating parent. In summary, while there is no specific law on parental alienation in India, the courts address such issues through existing family laws, always keeping the child’s welfare as the top priority.