Supreme Court Orders Union Government to Reassess Citizenship of Individuals Deported to Bangladesh

The Union Government has informed the Supreme Court of India that it plans to repatriate certain individuals who were allegedly forced into Bangladesh to verify their citizenship status. This development came to light during a hearing on a petition filed by the government, contesting a decision made by the Calcutta High Court that had overturned the Centre’s prior ruling to deport six individuals, including a pregnant woman and her family, back to Bangladesh.

During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Union Government, stated that the government would facilitate the return of these individuals, taking into account the unique circumstances surrounding their case. He emphasized, however, that this action should not set a precedent for future cases involving similar situations. The Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi, acknowledged the government’s commitment, indicating that the individuals’ future in India would hinge on the outcomes of further investigations regarding their citizenship.

The case at hand dates back to June 2025 when six individuals, namely Sunali Khatun, her husband, their son, along with another woman, Sweety Bibi, and her two sons, were apprehended in Delhi and subsequently deported to Bangladesh. They assert that they are originally from the Birbhum district in West Bengal. Their detention and deportation have raised significant concerns regarding the procedures followed and the criteria used to determine their citizenship.

In a significant twist, the Calcutta High Court in September had ruled against the deportation order, which led to the current legal scrutiny of the government’s actions. The Solicitor General indicated that the process to bring these individuals back to India would likely take eight to ten days. This case has become emblematic of broader issues concerning citizenship verification and the treatment of individuals within the contentious context of immigration in India.

The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate individuals involved, as it touches on critical themes of identity, rights, and the government’s role in safeguarding its citizens. The Supreme Court’s decision to review this matter reflects ongoing debates within Indian society regarding citizenship and the responsibilities of the state in ensuring justice and fair treatment for all individuals.

Source: scroll.in