Present Fernandes before the court, High Court tells his wife

The Delhi High Court today asked the wife of ailing former Union Minister George Fernandes to present the veteran socialist leader before it on July 5 to decide the custody battle between her and his brothers.

The Delhi High Court today asked the wife of ailing former Union Minister George Fernandes to present the veteran socialist leader before it on July 5 to decide the custody battle between her and his brothers.

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The court directed Leila Kabir to produce the 80-year-old politician as "it wants to ascertain what he wants".

"The person who, due to some incapability, was not able to be heard, the court wants to know what is in his mind to settle the issue," Justice V K Shali said directing Kabir to present Fernandes in the court at 4 PM on July 5.

The court was hearing the petition filed by Fernandes' brothers Richard and Michael seeking custody of their brother alleging that the former minister, who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease, is not being properly treated by his wife.

The judge said he was concerned about the health of Fernandes. "I am not on the legal dimension of the case. My concern is only about his health," Justice Shali said.