'17 foreigners lodged in Assam detention center should be released', SC tells central government

The Court highlighted the need for immediate deportation, especially for the four detainees who have been held for two years without any registered offences

Digital Desk: The Supreme Court has ordered the Central government to deport 17 foreigners detained in Assam's camps. Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan issued the directive, emphasising that these individuals have no pending cases against them.

The Court highlighted the need for immediate deportation, especially for the four detainees who have been held for two years without any registered offences. The Union was instructed to prioritise these cases and provide a compliance report within two months. 

The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for July 26. The order was made in the context of the condition of detention centres in Assam, where individuals with uncertain citizenship status or deemed foreigners are housed. 

During the proceedings, Justice Oka humorously noted that these foreigners were receiving facilities typically reserved for Indian citizens, while Justice Bhuyan questioned the government on the deportation process for individuals without pending proceedings, emphasising the importance of having appropriate procedures in place for deportation, including potential treaties with neighbouring countries.

"These foreigners tribunals once they have given a finding, what is the next step? Do you have a deportation treaty with the neighbouring country? If they have to be sent there, how will they (without a treaty)? You cannot keep them in the centres only," said Justice Bhuyan, as quoted by the Bar and Bench.