Supreme Court Orders India to Re-admit Deported Bangladeshi Mother

On ‘humanitarian grounds,’ the Supreme Court has commanded the Indian government to repatriate Sonali Khatoon, a Bangladeshi woman deported to her native country, along with her eight-year-old son. The Union government has officially stated its commitment to this repatriation, confirming that both will be under surveillance and will receive necessary medical attention. The Solicitor General articulated that this decision prioritizes compassion, noting that Khatoon had been residing in Birbhum, India, prior to her deportation. The Supreme Court acknowledged the government’s assurance to provide full medical care for Khatoon, especially given her pregnant state, and to ensure the daily needs of her child are met. This pivotal ruling emerged from the government’s special leave petition against a Calcutta High Court judgment that had ordered the family’s return. The High Court’s initial directive stemmed from a petition filed by Khatoon’s father, who alleged unlawful detention and deportation of his daughter, grandson, and son-in-law, asserting their Indian citizenship. The Centre had previously contested these claims, stating a lack of citizenship documentation from the deported individuals.