Orissa High Court Intervenes in Alleged Illegal Detention of Odisha Woman in Dubai
The Orissa High Court has expressed serious concern over the reported illegal detention of a woman from Odisha in Dubai, issuing directives for prompt action to secure her rescue and return to India. During a hearing on a habeas corpus petition on April 20, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice M S Raman highlighted deficiencies in police response and stressed the critical need for coordinated efforts through diplomatic avenues.
Details of the Case and Court Observations
The petition, submitted by Titilagarh-based social activist Ranju Raiman, alleges that Hasta Bisi, a 37-year-old resident of Jagua village in Balangir district, is being held captive in a villa in Dubai by a foreign national, with purported assistance from some locals. The situation gained public attention after a video clip circulated on social media, in which the woman appealed to the Indian government for assistance.
The court noted that despite the matter being brought to the attention of local police, no First Information Report (FIR) had been registered, and no visible steps had been taken. Recognizing the international implications, the bench sought the assistance of Deputy Solicitor General Prasanna Kumar Parhi to facilitate action. Parhi informed the court that while initial efforts had been made, the absence of crucial documents, including passport details, had hindered meaningful progress.
Legal Proceedings and Directives Issued
In response, the petitioner's counsel, Ashis Kumar Mishra, stated that Balangir Deputy Superintendent of Police Anita Pradhan already possesses relevant documents, such as 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. The high court has scheduled the next hearing for May 11, emphasizing the urgency of swift action to secure her safe return.
Background and Family Involvement
According to the petition, Bisi's husband 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, lodged a complaint at Titilagarh police station on January 6 of this year, highlighting the family's distress and the need for intervention.
This case underscores the challenges faced by Indian nationals abroad and the role of judicial oversight in ensuring their protection through legal and diplomatic channels.
