New Delhi: The Supreme Court has asked the 36 foreign nationals, who were detained here in India after being found violating lockdown guidelines in Tablighi Jamaat incident, to make a representation before the nodal officer who is appointed to facilitate their return to their home country.
In case any foreign national faces difficulty in returning, the lawyer for that person can contact the office of the Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, who has assured to extend necessary assistance, court said.
The bench comprising of Justice AM Khanwilkar, Justice BR Gavai and Justice Krishna Murari has given the orders in response to petition filed by 36 foreigners, members of Tablighi Jamaat, who were blacklisted by the Home Ministry for congregation in Nizamuddin, Delhi, during first lockdown imposed due to covid 19. They were facing trials in different parts of the country.
The court was also informed about two FIRs registered in Jharkhand on which trial is still pending. The court has directed the concerned Trial court to ensure that the trial is concluded within 2 months and compliance report is submitted before SC.
Court has clarified that its order on facilitating return "does not come in the way of the concerned department if they intend to question the correctness of the discharge/acquittal".
"Subject to that, the representation can be taken forward by the Nodal officer expeditiously," read the order.
Senior Advocate Salman Khurshid requested the court to place on record the help and guidance provided by SG Mehta.
The court will hear the matter again on 5th January 2021.
Also read: Man charged with attempt to murder for attending Tablighi event; HC says 'abuse of power'
