Model Child Welfare Guidelines. A Framework for Shared Parenting and Child Rights in India - RUDOLPH DSOUZA

The Model Child Welfare Guidelines (MCWG) proposes a landmark framework to reform custodial jurisprudence in India by shifting the focus from toxic, adversarial custody battles to shared parenting and systemic accountability. It provides a structured Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for policymakers, judges, and family law practitioners that treats the "Best Interests of the Child" as a measurable, actionable outcome rather than a subjective claim.

Born out of empirical data and grassroots advocacy, this book bridges the gap between progressive High Court rulings and trial-court execution. It directly confronts the most severe fractures in the family court system-including parental alienation, identity erasure, weaponized litigation, and visitation denial.

Key Frameworks Addressed:

Time-Bound Relief: Standardized 30-day interim access orders to neutralize delay tactics.

Paternity Integrity: Mandatory DNA protocols to link maintenance with biological certainty.

Financial Guardianship: Ring-fenced Child Welfare Escrows, FDs, and insurance mandates.

Anti-Abduction Rules: Rules preventing jurisdictional flight and unlawful relocation.

The MCWG is an indispensable desk reference and survival guide for family court judges, child welfare committees, legal professionals, and self-represented parents fighting to protect the sacred bond between a child and both parents.