Can't run "whole system", says SC
Refuses to entertain plea for making DNA testing available to ascertain parenthood
New Delhi (PTI): The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a plea seeking DNA testing across the country to decide disputes over parenthood, saying courts cannot run the whole system.
The petition came up for hearing before a bench comprising Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia.
The apex court observed that prayers made in the petition were very difficult to be granted on an all-India basis.
"Courts cannot run the whole system. It can decide the issue which crops up in a case," the bench told the petitioner.
The bench referred to section 112 of the Indian Evidence Act under which birth during continuance of a valid marriage is a conclusive proof of legitimacy of the child.
"What kind of petition is this?" the top court asked the petitioner, who was appearing in-person, adding, "You want DNA test to be done across the country?".
It asked the petitioner whether he has any personal litigation.
Any Indian citizen or lawyer can appear as petitioner in-person in a court in their individual capacity.
The petitioner replied in the affirmative and said he has a seven-year-old dispute on the issue.
"The prayers would be very difficult to be granted on all-India basis merely because the petitioner has had some issues which are pending ," the bench said while refusing to entertain the plea.
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Sikkim: Over 2,700 tourists rescued after heavy snowfall blocks road to Tsomgo Lake
Gangtok (PTI): Over 2,700 tourists stranded due to heavy snowfall near Tsomgo Lake in East Sikkim were rescued, officials said on Wednesday morning.
Heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Sherathang and adjoining areas led to road blockages, leaving 541 tourist vehicles stranded between 15th Mile and Tsomgo Lake, they said.
Through coordinated efforts, all vehicles with 2,736 tourists onboard were evacuated safely and systematically, with the operation concluding on Tuesday night, they added.
The Tourism Department advised tourists and tour operators to strictly follow weather advisories and ensure that vehicles are properly equipped, including mandatory snow chains, while travelling during snowfall conditions.
