Orissa High Court Demands Swift Action for Odisha Woman Illegally Held in Dubai
The Orissa High Court has raised serious concerns regarding the alleged illegal detention of a woman from Odisha in Dubai, issuing directives for immediate action to secure her rescue and safe return to India. During a hearing on April 20, a division bench led by Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice M. S. Raman addressed a habeas corpus petition, highlighting significant lapses in police response and stressing the urgent need for coordinated diplomatic intervention.
Petition Details and Social Media Appeal
The petition was filed by Titlagarh-based social activist Ranju Raiman, who alleged that Hasta Bibi, a 37-year-old resident of Jagua village in Bolangir district, is being held captive in a villa in Dubai by a foreign national. The case alleges that some locals may have assisted in this detention. The situation gained widespread attention after a video clip surfaced on social media, in which the woman made a desperate appeal to the Government of India for assistance.
Court Observations and Police Inaction
The court noted that despite the matter being brought to the attention of local police authorities, no First Information Report (FIR) had been registered, and no visible steps had been taken to address the issue. Recognizing the international dimensions of the case, the bench sought the assistance of Deputy Solicitor General Prasanna Kumar Parhi to facilitate necessary actions. Parhi informed the court that while initial efforts had been made, the absence of crucial documents, including passport details, had hindered meaningful progress.
Document Submission and Legal Directions
In response, the petitioner's counsel, Ashis Kumar Mishra, submitted that the Deputy Superintendent of Police in Bolangir already possessed relevant documents, including a photocopy of the victim's passport, which had been shared with her family. The bench then directed State counsel Aishwarya Dash to immediately provide all available documents from the police to the Deputy Solicitor General. Furthermore, the court instructed that upon receipt of these documents, steps must be taken without delay in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the woman's repatriation or deportation.
Background of the Case and Family Complaint
According to the petition, Hasta Bibi's husband had migrated with his family to Mumbai eight years ago in search of livelihood, after which circumstances allegedly led to her current situation abroad. Her mother, Laba Bibi, had lodged a formal complaint at the Titlagarh police station on January 6 of this year, highlighting the family's distress and seeking intervention.
Future Hearing and Emphasis on Urgency
The High Court has scheduled the matter for further hearing on May 11, 2026, while strongly emphasizing the need for swift and effective action to secure the woman's safe return. The court's directives underscore the importance of timely legal and diplomatic efforts in addressing cases of international detention and ensuring the protection of Indian citizens abroad.
