The Supreme Court of India has intervened in a sensitive case involving a pregnant woman, directing the central government to consider her plea to return to the country. The court's action came after the woman, identified as Sonali, was deported to Bangladesh along with her family on allegations of being an illegal migrant.
A Plea on Humanitarian Grounds
On Monday, a bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant heard an urgent plea concerning Sonali's advanced stage of pregnancy. Her counsel, advocate Sanjay Hegde, argued that she needed to be in a secure environment for her health and the well-being of her unborn child. The bench, responding to these humanitarian concerns, sought a response from the Union government.
The court specifically asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, whether Sonali and her five-year-old son could be permitted to re-enter India. The Supreme Court suggested that she could be admitted to a hospital upon return, where authorities could keep her under watch. Mehta assured the bench that he would convey the Centre's official stance on the matter by Wednesday.
The Background of the Deportation
The case has a complex legal history. Sonali, her husband Danish Sekh, and their young son were detained by the Delhi Police in June this year. The authorities suspected them of being illegal Bangladeshi migrants. Following due process, the family was subsequently deported to neighbouring Bangladesh, where they are currently detained at Chapainawabganj.
However, the Calcutta High Court later examined the case and delivered a significant verdict. The High Court declared the deportation illegal and directed the Union government to facilitate the family's return to India within a period of four weeks. Challenging this order, the Centre has filed an appeal before the Supreme Court, which is now pending.
Current Status and Next Steps
During the hearing, it was highlighted that Sonali's place of detention in Bangladesh is merely 40 kilometres from the Indo-Bangladesh border. Her counsel proposed a practical solution, stating that she and her son could travel to a nearby border checkpoint for entry into West Bengal. The Supreme Court emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the situation while awaiting the government's formal reply.
The legal tussle underscores the delicate balance between immigration enforcement and human rights considerations. The Supreme Court's interim suggestion to allow her return for medical care places the spotlight on the Centre's next move. All eyes are now on the solicitor general's response, which is expected when the matter is heard again.
