The Kerala High Court took up the matter relating to the disappearance of Suraj Lama, an Indian national who went missing after being deported from Kuwait and arriving at Kochi. The case came before a Division Bench in a habeas corpus petition filed by Lama’s son, who sought judicial intervention to trace his father and to examine the role of authorities in ensuring his safety after his return to India. The court focused on the sequence of events following Lama’s arrival and the apparent lack of coordinated action among various authorities responsible for his welfare.
According to reports placed before the court by the police, Suraj Lama arrived at the Cochin International Airport after being deported from Kuwait. Despite the fact that his residential address in India was known, no arrangements were made by immigration or airport authorities to ensure that he was safely transported to his home or handed over to family members. After being released from immigration custody, Lama was reportedly seen lingering in and around the airport premises. The materials before the court indicated that he appeared confused and disoriented during this period, raising concerns about his mental and physical condition at the time.
The police report further stated that Lama was later moved onto a metro feeder bus and reached the Aluva area, where he was seen wandering aimlessly. Police personnel eventually intervened and took note of his condition. On subsequent days, Lama was taken into police custody at Thrikkakara and later shifted to a government medical college hospital after his health deteriorated. The records suggested that he was weak and disoriented when admitted. After being discharged from the hospital, however, his whereabouts became unknown, and he could no longer be traced by the authorities.
During the proceedings, the High Court examined the manner in which Lama was handled at each stage after his deportation. The court expressed concern over the absence of any structured protocol to assist deported individuals who may be vulnerable due to health or mental issues. It questioned why no effort was made to ensure Lama’s safe passage to his residence or to place him under the care of his family or appropriate authorities upon arrival. The court also examined whether adequate follow-up was conducted after Lama was discharged from medical care.
The investigation revealed that a decomposed male body was later found in the Kalamassery area, wearing clothing similar to what Lama was last seen wearing. The police informed the court that DNA analysis was being conducted to ascertain whether the remains belonged to Suraj Lama. The High Court noted this development and sought updates on the progress of the forensic examination, emphasizing the importance of conclusively determining Lama’s fate.
The court directed the authorities to submit comprehensive records relating to Lama’s deportation, arrival, medical treatment, and police custody. It also sought explanations from both state and central authorities regarding the procedures followed in handling deported citizens, particularly those appearing to be in distress. The bench highlighted the constitutional obligation of the state to protect the life and liberty of citizens and underscored the need for accountability when a person goes missing under such circumstances.
The matter remains under the High Court’s consideration, with the court continuing to monitor the investigation and calling for detailed responses from all concerned authorities to ensure that the circumstances leading to Suraj Lama’s disappearance are fully examined.
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