Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has instructed the Union of India to safeguard the safety of a woman reportedly trafficked abroad by her live-in partner. Justice Alok Jain issued the directive, urging the Indian Embassy in Qatar to promptly investigate the matter and ensure the detainee’s well-being. The court’s decision came in response to a habeas corpus petition filed by the woman’s parents, which included allegations of “love-jihad”.
The petition, filed against the State of Punjab and other respondents, highlighted the detainee’s live-in relationship and her subsequent plea seeking protection of life and liberty. Despite no immediate threat to her safety, the court initially granted protection and arranged a meeting between the detainee and her parents.
However, a subsequent petition was filed based on communication from the detainee, alleging that she had been sold by her live-in partner in Bahrain and was in imminent danger. Justice Jain took cognizance of the urgency of the matter and issued notice to the Union of India for prompt action.
The court issued directives to the government counsel, urging them to expedite inquiries and prioritize the safety of the detainee. Emphasis was placed on fostering cooperation between the Indian Embassy in Qatar and local authorities to ensure swift resolution of the matter. Furthermore, the respondent-police authorities were instructed to take decisive action against the partner and his relatives, facilitating a thorough investigation into the detainee’s situation. These measures underscore the court’s commitment to upholding justice and safeguarding the rights of individuals involved in legal proceedings, particularly those detained abroad. The proactive approach taken by the court reflects its dedication to ensuring a fair and expeditious resolution, thereby offering reassurance to all parties involved in the case.
Furthermore, the court underscored the importance of coordination between state and central authorities to prevent harm to individuals involved in similar situations. The ruling reflects the judiciary’s commitment to protecting the rights and safety of individuals, particularly in cases involving alleged human trafficking and exploitation abroad.
