Sat Feb 14 15:46:57 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Madras High Court Upholds Life Sentence for Parents Who Poisoned Intellectually Disabled Daughter

The Story:

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has affirmed the life sentence given to a couple from the Virudhunagar district for the 2018 murder of their nine-year-old daughter, who had an intellectual disability. Justices G.K. Ilanthiraiyan and R. Poornima presided over the case, dismissing the couple’s appeal against the judgment passed by the Fast Track Mahila Court at Srivilliputhur. The court emphasized that parents have a fundamental responsibility to care for their children, regardless of any mental or physical disabilities, and that eliminating a child due to disability is against the law and societal norms.

The court highlighted that the child was in the exclusive care of her parents, who themselves admitted to administering poison, and offered no plausible explanation or evidence suggesting it was accidental or caused by a third party. Medical evidence confirmed that the child’s death was a direct result of poisoning.

Key Points:

  • The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court upheld the life sentence for a couple convicted of murdering their intellectually disabled daughter.
  • The crime occurred in 2018 in the Virudhunagar district.
  • The parents administered poison to their nine-year-old daughter.
  • Justices G.K. Ilanthiraiyan and R. Poornima presided over the case.
  • The court emphasized the parental duty to care for children with disabilities and that no one has the right to take another person’s life.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ruling underscores the legal and ethical obligations of parents to care for children with disabilities.
  • The court’s decision sends a strong message against any form of discrimination or violence against disabled individuals.
  • The judgment emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support rather than resorting to extreme measures when facing challenges in raising a child with disabilities.
  • The High Court’s decision confirms that the law does not permit parents to take the life of a child based on disability status.

Impact Analysis:

This case and the court’s decision have significant implications for disability rights and legal precedents in India. It reinforces the protection of vulnerable populations and serves as a deterrent against similar acts. The ruling may also encourage increased awareness and support services for families raising children with disabilities. Furthermore, this can set an example for other cases involving parents who have hurt or killed their disabled children.

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