Custody Battle Unfolds as Russian Woman and Daughters Found in Karnataka Cave

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1–2 minutes

Local sources from India: ETV Bharat, Navbharat Times.
UK coverage: BBC.

A custody dispute has taken center stage following the discovery of a Russian woman, Neena Kutina, and her two daughters, living in a cave in Karnataka, India. The case, which has captured public interest, involves complex issues of legal jurisdiction, child welfare, and international relations. Neena Kutina, who overstayed her visa since 2017, and her daughters, Preya and Ama, aged 6 and 4 respectively, were found near Gokarna, living in conditions that have since raised concerns about their well-being. Dror Goldstein, the Israeli father of the children, has stepped into the legal arena, seeking joint custody after the family’s precarious living situation came to light. Represented by Bengaluru-based lawyer Beena Pillai, Goldstein has been supporting his family by sending approximately $4000 monthly, despite his estrangement from Kutina. Goldstein’s legal move underscores his fears over the children’s upbringing and the potential risk of them being taken to Russia, a move that could sever his ties with them. The couple’s tumultuous relationship and Kutina’s aggressive tendencies, as alleged by Goldstein, have added layers of complexity to the custody battle, highlighting the challenges faced by binational families. Moreover, the younger daughter’s birth in India raises questions about her citizenship status and the family’s legal standing in the country. Kutina’s criticism of her detention conditions further complicates the narrative, revealing her preference for a life far removed from societal norms. This unfolding story not only sheds light on the personal struggles of the individuals involved but also casts a spotlight on the broader issues of immigration, child welfare, and the rights of foreign nationals living in India.