Shillong, Sep 11 (PTI) The Meghalaya government has informed the high court that 28 foreign nationals remained lodged in various jails in the state despite completing their sentences.
The government also told the Meghalaya High Court that it would identify detention or holding centres within a week to accommodate the foreign nationals until arrangements are made for their repatriation.
Additional Advocate General (AAG) K Khan made the submission before a division bench comprising Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W Diengdoh during the hearing of a case concerning the detention of foreign nationals on Thursday.
Khan submitted that the state government would file an affidavit detailing the steps to be taken after the detention or holding centres are identified.
In compliance with the high court’s September 9 order, Commissioner and Secretary, Home (Political) Department, Rosetta Mary Kurbah, Commissioner and Secretary, Home (Prisons) Ryntihlang Rapthap, Inspector General of Prisons Zenith Sangma and SP-cum-Foreigners Registration Office Vivek Syiem appeared in person before the court.
The officials assured the court that steps would be taken to repatriate the foreign nationals in coordination with the embassies concerned.
The AAG also submitted a list of foreign nationals who have remained in jails beyond the completion of their sentences, which was taken on record by the court.
The court said the authorities, including the Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority, should assist the inmates in completing the formalities required for their return to their respective countries.
The bench also directed that assistance be provided for applying for the necessary documentation, including the Foreigners Registration-related formalities, in cases where the foreign nationals have married Indian citizens and have children.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 17. PTI JOP NN
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