Gauhati HC Directs Assam Govt To Provide Information On Detained ‘Declared Foreigners’

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The Gauhati High Court has issued a notice to the Assam government, directing it to provide information regarding the whereabouts and legal status of two individuals—Abu Bakkar Siddik and his brother Akbar Ali—who have been declared as foreigners by the Foreigners’ Tribunal.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for June 4, 2025.

Background of the Case

The two brothers were detained in a transit camp in Assam after being declared foreigners by the Foreigners’ Tribunal. Their families have expressed concerns over their prolonged detention and the lack of clear communication from the authorities regarding their status and future.

Court’s Intervention

A division bench comprising Justice Kalyan Rai Surana and Justice Malasri Nandi took suo motu cognizance of the matter and issued the notice to the Assam government. The court emphasized the need for transparency and timely information regarding the detention and deportation processes of individuals declared as foreigners.

Implications

This development underscores the ongoing legal and humanitarian challenges associated with the identification and treatment of individuals declared as foreigners in Assam. The court’s intervention aims to ensure that due process is followed and that the rights of the detained individuals are upheld.