Overview A family court in Surat, Gujarat , on Monday, December 22, 2025 , issued a stay on the 'diksha' (religious initiation) of a seven-year-old Jain girl . The decision came after her father filed a plea contesting his estranged wife's decision to have their daughter embrace monkhood against his wishes. Key Developments Court Order: Family court judge SV Mansuri granted an interim stay on the girl's 'diksha'. Scheduled Ceremony: The 'diksha' was scheduled for February 8, 2026 , in Mumbai . Legal Action: The father filed a plea under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 , seeking to be appointed as the girl's legal guardian. Court Hearing: Further hearing on the matter is scheduled for January 2, 2026 . Parental Dispute: The couple has been living separately since 2024 , with the dispute over the daughter's 'diksha' being a major point of contention. Background The petitioner's lawyer, Samapti Mehta , stated that the court has asked the mother to file an affidavit confirming that the child will not participate in the ceremony. The court was informed that the woman had left her husband's house nearly a year ago due to the dispute and took her daughter and son to live with her parents. Arguments Presented Father's Claim: The father claimed that he had agreed with his wife that their daughter could become a monk after attaining maturity. Mother's Insistence: The wife insisted on the child taking 'diksha' at a mass ceremony in Mumbai in February 2026 . Child's Age: The father argued that his daughter is too young to make such a significant decision on her own. Allegations: The father alleged that his wife took their daughter to religious gatherings and left her alone with a 'guru' without his consent. He also claimed that he was once not permitted to meet his daughter at a Jain monk's ashram in Mumbai . UPSC Relevance This case highlights several issues relevant to the UPSC syllabus: GS1: Indian Culture: The case involves a religious practice within Jainism, providing insight into cultural traditions and beliefs. GS2: Social Justice: The case raises questions about child rights, religious freedom, and the role of the state in protecting vulnerable individuals. GS2: Governance: The application of the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890, and the role of family courts are relevant to understanding the legal framework for guardianship and child welfare. Key Terms Diksha: Religious initiation ceremony in Jainism, marking the beginning of monkhood. Guardians and Wards Act, 1890: Indian law dealing with guardianship matters for minors. Family Court: Court dealing with family-related disputes like custody and guardianship.