On May 4, 2026, the Bombay High Court dismissed two petitions challenging a 2021 amendment to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, which allows District Collectors in Maharashtra, India, to issue adoption orders instead of courts. The ruling, made by a bench of Justice Bharati Dangre and Justice Manjusha Deshpande, stated that the amendment aims to reduce delays in the adoption process and is lawful. Previously, a valid court order was required for adoption, but the amendment now mandates a valid order from the District Collector. Petitioners argued that adoption approval is a judicial function and should not be assigned to an executive authority, expressing concerns over the District Collector's legal expertise. However, the court defended the amendment, noting that District Collectors are senior executive magistrates responsible for district administration and are capable of handling such matters. The court also highlighted that training will be provided to District Collectors to ensure they can effectively implement the provisions of the Act. Consequently, both petitions were dismissed.