The Supreme Court of India has scheduled a hearing on May 8 for petitions concerning the deportation of Rohingya refugees and their living conditions, particularly focusing on their children’s right to education and healthcare.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the complex intersection of humanitarian needs and national security concerns.
Justice Suryakant and Justice N Kotishwar Singh will hear the case, which revolves around the treatment of Rohingya refugees in India, particularly their access to essential services.
The case comes after a public interest litigation (PIL) raised concerns over the discrimination faced by Rohingya refugee children in obtaining education and medical care.
The Supreme Court previously highlighted the need for providing education to all children, including Rohingya refugee children, without discrimination.
In its earlier hearing, the Court emphasized the importance of ensuring these children’s access to government schools and hospitals, responding to petitions filed by NGOs advocating for refugee rights.
The central government, in its affidavit, argued that foreign nationals, including refugees, cannot fully integrate into Indian society.
The government stated that refugees have the right to life and liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution but do not have the right to reside and settle in India.
In response, the Court instructed that refugee children should first seek admission in government schools, and if rejected, they can approach the High Court.
Colin Gonsalves, a senior advocate representing the Rohingya Human Rights Initiative, welcomed the Court’s direction.
He highlighted that the ruling would potentially provide 500 Rohingya children with access to government schools.
He also pointed out the issue of these children being denied enrollment due to the lack of Aadhaar cards, which they do not possess as they are UNHCR cardholders.
Gonsalves emphasized that without Aadhaar cards, these children are deprived of critical services, including education and healthcare.
The Delhi High Court had earlier dismissed a similar petition, citing the connection to national security and citizenship issues.
Following this dismissal, the NGO escalated the matter to the Supreme Court.
During a hearing on January 29, 2025, the Court requested the petitioners to provide detailed information on children who were denied admission due to their refugee status.
The Court will review this data in the upcoming hearing.
The case has raised significant concerns, highlighting the delicate balance between national security and the humanitarian needs of refugees.
The Supreme Court’s decision could set a landmark precedent on the treatment of refugees, particularly in relation to children’s rights to education and healthcare in India.
As the Supreme Court prepares for its May 8 hearing, the decision will address critical questions about the rights of Rohingya refugees and could have long-term implications for the treatment and integration of refugees in India.
The outcome of this case may influence future policies and legal precedents concerning refugee rights in the country.
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