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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3305563 \fs20\lang1033\langfe5129\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp5129 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 IN THE HIGH COURT}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10648207\charrsid6896892  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 OF FIJI}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11481028 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 (AT SUVA)}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 APPELLATE JURISDICTION
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 CIVIL APPEAL NO. 18 OF 1991
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 BETWEEN:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 SACHIN DEO}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3043070\charrsid6896892 f/n Maha Deo
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11481028 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 Appellant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid6896892 AND}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2885006 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377 BRIJ BH}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377\charrsid6896892 AN SINGH }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377\charrsid6896892 and}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377\charrsid6896892  ARUNE DEVI}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11481028 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 Respondents
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\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377\charrsid6896892 M.K. Sahu Khan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377\charrsid6896892  for the Appellant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 G.P.}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10648207\charrsid6896892  Shankar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  for the Respondents}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15864723\charrsid6896892 V. }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10975143\charrsid6896892 Nathan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10975143\charrsid6896892 , Public Legal Adviser:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  Amic}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 us C}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 uriae
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13314137\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314137 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13314137\charrsid6896892 JUDGMENT}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13314137\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 Thes}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid866130\charrsid6896892 e}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
 proceedings concern an infant girl named Dixit Aileen Swastika Deo who is the daughter of the Ap}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 p}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
ellant (the father) and who was born of 19 September 1988 and who is therefore }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2885006\charrsid6896892 about 3\'bd }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4805621\charrsid6896892 y}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9726163\charrsid6896892 ears }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 old. The Respondents are her maternal grandparents.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9726163\charrsid6896892 The father who is}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  a police constable was married }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3291985\charrsid6896892 to the infant's mother on 5 Aug}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 ust 1987. After the marriage they lived together}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892  in Police Quarters at Nasese. Tragically, the mother died on 16 September 1990. Following her death the father went to stay with the grand
parents for the traditional 13 day period of mourning known as Kriyakaram. When this period came to an end he wished to take the infant with him back to his parents}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11481028 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892  home at Nadi where he had been transferred. The grandparents refused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 
\par On 9 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9655524\charrsid6896892 October }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 1990 th
e father commenced proceedings in the High Court at Lautoka seeking a writ of Habeas Corpus Ad Subjiciendum for the delivery up to him of the infant.
\par 
\par On 16 November 1990 the application was transferred to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 Nausori Magistrates' Court for hearing, apparently
 on the grounds of convenience. After hearing the parties the Magistrates' Court ordered that the infant remain with the grandparents but that reasonable access be granted to the father. The father appealed.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9726163\charrsid6896892 On}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892  20 February 1992 the appeal came before for hearing.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1199933\charrsid6896892  In the course of the hearing it}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892  emerged that a series of irregularities and breaches 
of the rules had occurred following the transfer of the matter from Lautoka which cumulatively were so serious and so detrimental to both parties that there was no realistic alternative but to set the Order of the Magistrates Court aside and to transfer t
he whole proceedings back to the High Court for hearing de novo.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 On 2 April 1992 the hearing took place. There were six affidavits filed by the parties, three by the fathe}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12462361\charrsid6896892 
r and three by the grandparents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  There were also two Welfare Officers' repo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12462361\charrsid6896892 rts together with supplementary}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  up dates, filed by the Welfare Off}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12462361\charrsid6896892 icers at Nadi and Nausori}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 . I also heard evidence from the father, the grandfather, a Senior Health Sister and witne}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 s}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 ses called in support of both parties. Counsel for the parties filed most helpful and learned written submissions.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5982218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11149754 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 The central question}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 
 which has to be answered is a q}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 uestion which has }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 frequently}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2625603\charrsid6896892  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 worried and troubled the Courts before:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11149754\charrsid6896892  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 should the infant be with her grandparents or with her father?
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 In each of the jurisdictions to which this Court has}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 traditionally looked for guidance there is legi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 sla}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 tion covering the guardianship and welfare of infant who are not the subject}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 of matrimonial proceedi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 ngs. Examples are the Guardiansh}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 ip of Infants Act 1925 (England and Wales) and the Guardianship of Infants Acts 1926 and 1968 (New Zealand)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3160449\charrsid6896892 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  In Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 ,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  however, there is no equ}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9783556\charrsid6896892 ivalent legislation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892  The closest Fiji comes is section 85 (1) of the Matrimonial Causes Act (C}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11149754\charrsid6896892 ap. 51)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5325200\charrsid6896892  which reads as follows:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12326727 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8346572 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 "In Proceedings in which application has been made with respect to the custody, guardianship}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 , welfare, advancement or education of children of a marriage-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8346572 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8346572 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 (a) the Court shall regard the interest of the children as the paramount consideration; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8346572 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid8346572 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 (b) subject to paragraph (a) (a Court) may make such }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11149754\charrsid6896892 O}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 rder in respect of those matters as it thinks proper."
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15555218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12326727\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15555218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
That section cannot however be applied directly to a case such as this since this application is for Habeas Corpus and is not a "proceeding}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11149754\charrsid6896892 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892  within the meaning of the Matrimonial Causes Act given the
 definition section of the Act and Rule 3 of the Rules thereto. In the absence of legislation, guidance may still be heard from the decisions of Superior Courts in the traditional jurisdictions but great care must be taken to avoid giving undue regard to 
the decision}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6896892\charrsid6896892 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892  of those Courts which reflect legislation which is not applicable in Fiji.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8913798 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8913798\charrsid6896892 In}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892  exercising jurisdiction in thi}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1580180\charrsid6896892 s matter this Court does so by v}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
irtue of section 18 and 22 of the High Court Act (Cap. 13) and by virtue of Order 54. It exercises the jurisdiction which has been exercised by the Court of Chancery from time immemorial. It is a paternal jurisdiction}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6896892\charrsid6896892 ,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
a judicially administrative jurisdiction in virtue of which the High Court is put to act on behalf of the State, as being the guardian of all infants, in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7677180\charrsid6896892 
place of the parent and as if is}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892  were parent of the child, thus superseding the natural guardianship of the parent (see }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 the Queen v. Gyngall}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892  [1893] 2 QB 232, 239).}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
\par In 1925 the English Guardianship of Infants Act became law. Section 1 of the Act reads in part as follows:-
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8913798 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13138424\charrsid6896892 "Where in any}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
 proceedings before any Court \'85the custody or upbringing of an infant\'85 is in question \'85the Court shall have regard to the welfare of the infant as the first and paramount consideration\'85"
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8913798 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4136117 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
The relevance of this Act flows from the fact that it has been held and accepted that it did not affect the law as underst}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5974861\charrsid6896892 oo}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 d and applied in the Chancery Division prior to its enactment. "The section merely enacts the rule which had up to that time been acted upon by the Chancery Division." (see }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 In Re Thai}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11939377 n}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 (an}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1261108\charrsid6896892  infant) [1926}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 ] 1 Ch. 676, 689).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8913798 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15209499 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
It appears therefore that the rule that the welfare of the infant is the first and paramount consideration is not only the rule in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9190909\charrsid6896892 Chancery}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892  but also in guardianship applications in Fiji brought under the provisions of Order }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892 
54. It will also be noted that the wording of section 1 of the 1925 Act is almost precisely the same as the rule laid down in cus}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6896892\charrsid6896892 tody proceeding by section 85(1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892 ) of the Matrimonial Causes Act already referred to.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15209499\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892 
\par The difficul}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6896892\charrsid6896892 ty facing this Court does not, h}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892 
owever, flow from discovering the arcane sources of the law to be applied; it flows from its application to the facts of this case, a case which is by no means the first of its kind. Where a
 parent has by conduct shown him or herself to be totally unsuitable to look after an infant the position is relatively straightforward and custody will be refused (}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892 Re Flynn}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892  [1848] 2 De G & Sm 457). Where however such disentitling conduct has been proved the problem is more difficult.
\par 
\par The area of dispute as to the fact between the parties in the present case is not large. It is clear from the Welfare Reports that both the father and grandparents are able to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3163838\charrsid6896892 
provide entirely suitable accommodation for the infant. Although the grandparents made some attempt to portray the father as unloving towards the child I think the fact that he has struggled so hard to get her b}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13306194\charrsid6896892 ack to him more than outweighs }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3163838\charrsid6896892 a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13306194\charrsid6896892 n}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3163838\charrsid6896892 y lack of birthday presents he may have sent her since Octobe
r 1990. The grandparents say the father never visited the child but the father says that when he tried they refused to let him see her. The grandfather admitted that had been an argument and he had refused to allow the infant to leave. I am satisfied havi
ng considered the evidence on this point that the main reason the father has not seen the infant since October 1990 is that the grandparents refused to allow him to do so.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8730668\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5448243 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892 The grandparents also attempted to portray the father as a violent man who had assau
lted the mother and who had rejected the infant. It was said that he had wanted a son rather than a daughter. Naturally, the father denied all this. The grandparents claimed that the infant had effectively always lived with them at one version since she w
a
s 3 years old and on another since she was 6 weeks old. The father claimed that the infant had only gone to live with the parents in September 1990 when she was already 2 years old. The grandparents called witnesses to say that they had seen the child wit
h the grandparents sin}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid488179\charrsid6896892 ce she was very small but I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4222929\charrsid6896892  do}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892  not believe this to be the complete truth. On all the evidence before me I find that the truth most probably lies in between the two extremes.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5448243\charrsid6896892  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13632996\charrsid6896892 It}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892 
 is apparent that the father's marriage was not especially happy and I accept that he was not especially close to the daughter. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1784237\charrsid6896892 I}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892  believe that in these circumstances the mother and child spent a considerable amount}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4201346\charrsid6896892  of time with the grandparents e
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892 ither together or alone but I reject the grand}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1709228\charrsid6896892 parents}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1709228\charrsid6896892  claim that the father refused}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892  to accept his daughter and that the }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1191897\charrsid6896892 daughter had never lived with her parents. As to the cl}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5448243\charrsid6896892 aims}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1191897\charrsid6896892  of assault it is sufficient to note that it was never said by the grandparents that the father had assaulted the infant.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4468073\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13922826 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5448243\charrsid6896892 
The position as I therefore find it is this: a father who must be considered unimpeachable seeks the return o}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210 f his 3\'bd}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid5448243\charrsid6896892 
 year old daughter whom he has not seen for 18 months and who does not remember him. The grandparents to whom the infant has become deeply attached do not want to give her up. The grand}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9444779\charrsid6896892 
father}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892  in particular told me that having lost his own daughter so tragically, his granddaughter}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 s presence was a great }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11955692\charrsid6896892 consolation. The father lives on}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 
 the other side of Fiji from the grandparents and accordingly frequent access is impossible. Mr. Shankar submits that the welfare of the child which is paramount indicates that for the avoidance of all the trauma that would follow a handing over of the in
f
ant by her grandparents as well as for the avoidance of all the uncertainty as to whether the infant would adjust to her new surroundings she should be left where she is, at least for the time being. Mr. Sahu Khan in answer submits as between an unimpeach
able parent and a stranger the rights of the parent must prevail.
\par 
\par In support of Mr. Sahu Khan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 s submission a number of authorities may be cited. Prominent among them is }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 Thai}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210 n'}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 s}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892  case already referred to wherein is to be found at page 684 the following classic passage by Eve J:-
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5982218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15555218\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 "I am satisfied that the child will be as happy and well cared for in t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210 he one home as the other and in }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 as}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11023210  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 much as the rule laid down for my guidance in the exercise of this responsible jurisdiction does not state that the welfare of 
the infant is to be the sole consideration but the paramount consideration it necessarily contemplates the existence of other conditions and amongst these the wishes of an unimpeachable parent undoubtedly stand first."}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 Thain }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 was followed in New Zealand in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 
In Re Mills}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892  (an infant) [1928] NZLR 158 in which a father who had placed an infant aged 2\'bd
 with relatives following the mother's death sought her return 5 years later and was successful. It was also followed again in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 In Re Butler}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892  (an infant) [1931] NZLR 1
21 where the father, following the mother's death, had placed the infant aged 10 days in the care of his sister in law and successfully obtained her return 7 years later.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13922826\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 Thai}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892  was also recently cited with approval by the Fiji Court of Appeal }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892 in adoption proceedings }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892 (Mala v. Chan and Devi}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892  FCA 17/89). In all these cases the thinking of the Court has been similar to that of Fitzgibbon LJ who in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892 
In Re O'Hara}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892  [1900] 2 Ir R 232 said:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9582229\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892 "Where a parent is of blameless life and is able and willing to provide for t
he child's material and moral necessities \'85 the Court is in my opinion judicially bound to act on what is equally a law of nature and society and to hold that the best place for a child is with its parents."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7152086\charrsid6896892 
\par In reply to this submission Mr. Shankar }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 relied heavily on the very important case of }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid11023210 J v. c}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892  [1970] AC 668; [1969] 1 ALL ER 788 in which the House of Lords revie
wed the whole development of the law and the meaning of section 1 of the 1925 Act. The House upheld the refusal of the High Court to order the return of a child to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6829481\charrsid6896892 un}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 impeachable parents. At the conclusion of his judgment Lord MacDermott set out three "comments" which it is clear represent the general views of their Lordships. They are as follows:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1532365\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 
"2. In applying Section 1 the rights and wishes of parents whether unimpeachable or otherwise must be assessed and weighted in their bearing on the welfare of the child in conjunction with all other factors relevant to that issue.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 3. While there is now no rule of law that the right}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid799571\charrsid6896892 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 
 and wishes of unimpeachable parents must prevail over other consideration, such rights, and wishes, recognised as they are by nature 
and society, can be capable of ministering to the total welfare of the child in a special way and must therefore preponderate in many cases. The parental rights, however, remain qualified and not absolute for the purposes of the investigation, the broad n
ature of which is still as described in the fourth of the principles annuciated }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11090178 [sic] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 by }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8005440\charrsid6896892 Fitzgibbon}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892  L. J in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 In Re O'Hara}{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8005440\charrsid6896892 .}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10108148\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8005440\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8005440\charrsid6896892 
4. Some of the authorities convey the impression that the upset caused to a child by a change of custody is transient and a matter of small importance. For all I know that may have been true in t}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4802828\charrsid6896892 he cases containing dicta to that}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8005440\charrsid6896892 
 effect. But I think a growing experience had shown that it is not always so and that serious harm even to young children may on occasion be caused by such a chan
ge. I do not suggest that the difficulties of this subject can be resolved by purely theoretical considerations or that they need to be left entirely to expert opinion. But a child's future happiness and sense of security are always important }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 factors and the effects of a change of custody will often be worthy of the close and anxious attention which they have undoubtedly receive in this case".}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8005440\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 
\par The "fourth principle" referred to in 3 above reads as follows:-
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 "4. In exercising the jurisdiction to control or
 to ignore the parental right the Court must act cautiously, not as if it were a private person acting with regard to his own child, and acting in opposition to the parent only when judicially satisfied that the welfare of the child requires that the pare
ntal right should be suspended or superseded."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 
\par The last of the comments made by Lord MacDermott is of a special note since it clearly represents a move away from part of the thinking of Eve J who expressed himself in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 Thain}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892  at page 684 in the following curiously old fashioned words:-
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 "It is said that the little girl will be great}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513128 
ly distressed and upset at part}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 ing from Mr and Mrs Jones. I can quite understand it may be so but at her }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 tender }
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 age }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
(7 years old) one knows from experience how mercifully transient are the effects of partying and other sorrows and how soon the novelty of fresh surroundings and new associations effaces the recollection of former days and kind friends and I cannot attach
 much weight to this aspect of the case".}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11219014\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
\par The last decision to which I wish to refer is }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 Re D }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
(an infant) [1971] NZLR 737 in which an aunt sought custody of an 11 year old girl who had lived with her since she was 11 weeks old. Allowing the application the Court laid down the following three principles:-
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 1. There was a }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid14513128 prima }{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12586184\charrsid14513128 facie}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12586184\charrsid6896892  presumption that it was f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 o}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid12586184\charrsid6896892 r}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892  the benefit of the child that he or she should be in the custody of the natural parents.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 2. The }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid14513128 prima facie}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892  presumption might be displaced by }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid14513128 inter alia}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892  showing that the parent was lacking in affection for the child or had been unmindful of parental duty.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
3. If there had been an abdication of parental authority then the Court would not allow the parent to resume it.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
\par The last principle, not specifically referred to in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 J v. }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid328812\charrsid6896892 C}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892  is consistent with an old decision of the High Court of Australia }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 Goldsmith v. Sands}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892  [1907] 4 CLR 1648 where the Court upheld the refusal of a father's }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
application for the return of child aged 9 who had been left by him with its gra
ndparents following the death of its mother when only 5 years old on the ground that having effectively abandoned his right to the custody of the child in favour of the grandparents it would be injurious to her welfare to order that her custody be changed
.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid10757097\charrsid6896892 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
\par Reviewing the principles annu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid14513128 n}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
ciated in the authorities cited, one emerges clearly. It is only in exceptional cases that a child should be deprived of its right to live with its parent. In the present case I am satisfied that the father can properly be described as unimpeachab}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3869874\charrsid6896892 le. That is not to say that he }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 h}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3869874\charrsid6896892 a}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
s been or will be a prefect parent; no parent is. I am satisfied however that he can be provided a suitable loving home environment for his daughter. I am not satisfied that he ever inten}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid6561699\charrsid6896892 ded to abandon his claim to her. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
Although I realise that a parting from her grandparents would be a time of bitter sadness I believe that with proper care and loving and unselfish assistance from her father, grandparents on both sides, other relatives and th
e Department of Social Welfare this sadness would in due course pass away.
\par 
\par The grandparents have not rebutted the presumption th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid2952556\charrsid6896892 at the best place for Dixit Ail}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
een Swastika Deo is with her father. I grant the Order sought. I will hear Counsel bef}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8798047 ore giving directions as to its}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid6896892 
 implementation.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid6896892 
I desire to add one footnote. It is a melancholy fact that had this application for Habeas Corpus been dealt with with the urgency that it deserved the parting by Dixit from her grandparents would have taken
 place at a time when she was by virtue of youth much more likely to get over it smoothly and rapidly. The dilatory way this matter has been handled reflects poorly on the administration of justice in Fiji.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid7278968 M.D}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid7278968\charrsid7278968 .}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid7278968  SCOTT}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13132716\charrsid7278968 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid6896892 JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid673628 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid6896892 
\par At Suva,
\par 10}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\super\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid6896892 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid673628\charrsid6896892  day of April, 1992.
\par }}