SC Asks Centre To Bring Back Six Deportees, Probe Citizenship
The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday asked the central government to consider bringing back six individuals who were deported to Bangladesh, including an eight-month-pregnant woman, while their claims of Indian citizenship are examined. The bench observed that the Centre should readmit them first and complete the verification process swiftly.
Background To The Case
The deported group includes Sunali (also reported as Sonali) Khatun, her husband Danish Sheikh, and their minor son Sabir, along with three others. They were removed from India on the grounds of being illegal immigrants. However, they asserted Indian nationality, and the Calcutta High Court had earlier quashed the deportation orders. The court had also directed the Centre to bring them back by a set deadline, which was not fully complied with.
Implications For Citizenship Verification
The Supreme Court’s direction now puts the responsibility on the Centre to balance enforcement with due-process obligations. The case raises broader concerns about documentation, proof of citizenship, and the rights of those facing deportation. For the affected families, the issue remains unresolved as they await both repatriation and the outcome of citizenship scrutiny.
