Kerala High Court Orders Centre To Facilitate Repatriation Of Vipanchika's Mortal Remains From UAE, Child To Be Buried By Father In Sharjah

The Kerala High Court on Thursday ordered the Central government and the Consul General, India-UAE Embassy to take actions facilitating repatriation of Vipanchika Maniyan's mortal remains to India.

The 32-year old woman was found hanging along with her one-year old daughter, in their residence in UAE's Sharjah.

Her maternal aunt had approached the Court seeking diplomatic engagement in the matter.

The Court today impleaded Vipanchika's husband as an additional respondent, who informed that following a mediation at the Embassy in Sharjah it was decided that her mortal remains can be brought back to India and rituals can be completed by her maternal aunt. However, the daughter's remains will be buried by him in Sharjah.

Justice N. Nagaresh recorded these submissions and noting that the issues are almost sought consensually, said no further orders are required in the case. As such, the plea has been closed.

The maternal aunt's plea alleged that Vipanchika was subjected to constant mental harassment, emotional abuse and threats at the hands of her husband and his family members.

Apprehending tampering and destruction of material evidence surrounding her mysterious death, the plea also sought to ensure transparency in investigation, proper post-mortem examination and medico-legal procedures of the deceased.

A detailed order is awaited.

Case No: WP(C) No. 26141 of 2025

Case Title: Sheela S. v. Union of India and Ors.

Citation:  2025 LiveLaw (Ker) 428

Counsel for petitioner: A.V. Indira, Anandhu Satheesh and Sreedevi S.