The Delhi High Court has directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure the safety of a woman who is alleged to have been held captive by a foreign national in Dubai. The Court recognized the serious nature of the allegations and the risk to her personal liberty, noting that the matter involves potential human-rights violations while the woman is abroad.
The Court ordered the MEA to take immediate steps to locate the woman, verify her condition, and provide consular protection. This includes facilitating contact between her and Indian diplomatic officials, ensuring access to legal assistance, medical aid or safe shelter if required, and coordinating with relevant authorities abroad to secure her safety. The directions emphasize that consular assistance must be prompt and effective, owing to the urgency and gravity of the allegations.
Further, the Court made clear that its orders are binding and must be implemented without delay. The MEA was asked to report back on the measures taken to safeguard the woman and to coordinate any rescue or repatriation efforts if she wishes to return to India.
By issuing these directions, the Court reaffirmed that the Indian government — through the MEA — has an obligation to protect Indian citizens abroad when there is prima facie evidence of unlawful restraint or coercion. The judgment underscores that citizens abroad are entitled to fundamental rights, and diplomatic/consular authorities cannot remain passive when there are credible allegations of captivity or human-rights violations involving them.
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