A bench comprising Justice M M Sundresh and Justice P B Varale observed the importance of the joint family system in India while agreeing with the remarks made by Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta regarding the changing social environment and its impact on young couples.
Tushar Mehta told the court that the joint family system traditionally played an important role in resolving conflicts between couples, as elders helped address disputes within families. He said that in nuclear families, couples often face problems alone, leading to an increase in separations and depression.
"Social media has increased exposure, but young people today are also more vulnerable to mental pressure, which often spills over into personal relationships and family life," Mehta said.
Responding to these observations, Justice M M Sundresh said that such incidents are likely to increase with changes in the family system. He added that matrimonial disputes could lead to greater conflicts involving personal laws.
"The present generation may be more knowledgeable than us, but in terms of dealing with pressure, they are more vulnerable," Justice Sundresh remarked.
Tushar Mehta further stated that young people today have "more information but not more knowledge". Justice P B Varale highlighted the risks of misinformation in the digital era, stating that information shared on WhatsApp is often being treated as knowledge.
Justice M M Sundresh also expressed concern over increasing dependence on mobile devices among children and families. "The other day I saw a child crying and the parents immediately handed him a mobile. Parents are replaced by a mobile like this...It becomes a disaster! It is a great difficulty for parents like us, but then we gradually have to change," he said.
While cancelling Sonam Raghuvanshi’s bail, the Supreme Court observed that the allegations against her were "quite serious". The court stated that she would be free to apply for bail again after six months if the trial proceedings are not completed.
The Supreme Court’s observations during the bail hearing have highlighted broader concerns surrounding changing family structures, digital influence, emotional pressure among young people, and the growing challenges faced by modern relationships. The case continues to remain under judicial consideration, with the court emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.
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