Ahmedabad Legal Digest - Tuesday, 24 February 2026

In a pivotal week for the Gujarat High Court, significant rulings have emerged that reinforce individual rights against administrative overreach, uphold consumer protections, and clarify custodial rights under family law. Notably, the court's decision in Mahendra Shanabhai Patel & Ors. v. The District Magistrate & Ors. delineates the boundaries of governmental authority, emphasizing the necessity for local authorities to operate within legal parameters. This ruling not only serves to protect residents and businesses from potential abuses of power but also highlights the judiciary's critical role in maintaining the rule of law.

Additionally, the court's stance on electricity theft allegations underscores a growing recognition of consumer rights in the face of utility company practices. By requiring concrete evidence before imposing theft charges, the ruling safeguards consumers from arbitrary billing and reinforces the principle of fairness in commercial transactions. Furthermore, the court's affirmation of maternal guardianship for young children under the Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act reaffirms the legal presumption favoring mothers in custody disputes, a crucial aspect for family law practitioners navigating similar cases. Collectively, these developments signal a commitment to protecting individual rights across various legal domains, offering essential guidance for legal professionals in Gujarat as they navigate the evolving landscape of civil and family law.