Parens patriae
| Literal meaning | Parent of the nation |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | PAH-renz PAH-tree-eye |
The State acts as guardian of those who cannot protect their own interests, such as children and persons of unsound mind.
Example
The court takes over the care of a child whose parents are fighting over custody, and decides in the child's interest.
Case laws
- Charan Lal Sahu v. Union of India (1990), Supreme Court: the Court held that the Government of India, as parens patriae, could represent the victims of the Bhopal gas disaster.
Exam tip
Asked with child custody and mass disasters.
Memory trick
State as parent.
Key takeaway
The State protects those who cannot protect themselves.
© 2026 NyayaSaral