The direction was issued by a Division Bench comprising Justice C.V. Karthikeyan and Justice R. Sakthivel while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate K.R. Raja. The petition raises significant concerns regarding the living conditions of detainees and seeks systemic reforms in the administration of Foreigners’ Special Camps across Tamil Nadu.
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Regional Special Deputy Collector in charge of the Foreigners’ Special Camp at Kottapattu, Tiruchirappalli, to submit a comprehensive report on the existing facilities at the camp and the budgetary provisions for improving its infrastructure.
According to the petitioner, the Kotta pattu camp currently houses approximately 125 foreign nationals, many of whom are detained for immigration-related violations rather than serious criminal offences. The petition further contends that several detainees, despite having completed their sentences, secured bail, or been acquitted by competent courts, continue to remain in detention.
The PIL highlights several deficiencies within the camp, including the absence of qualified interpreters, inadequate sanitation and maintenance, insufficient supply of potable drinking water, and the inadequacy of the daily subsistence allowance of ₹175 to meet basic living expenses
In addition to seeking immediate improvements in living conditions, the petitioner has urged the Court to direct the State authorities to formulate comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the Foreigners Act, 1946.
The proposed framework would govern matters relating to admission, detention, deportation, healthcare, sanitation, legal aid, mental health support, grievance redressal, and periodic inspections of Foreigners’ Special Camps across the State.Recognising the seriousness of the issues raised, the High Court directed the concerned authority to submit a detailed status report.
The matter has been adjourned to 19 August for further consideration.
Editorial Note :
The proceedings underscore the judiciary’s continued emphasis on ensuring that detention facilities adhere to constitutional principles of dignity, fairness, and humane treatment. The outcome of the case is expected to have broader implications for the regulation and administration of Foreigners’ Special Camps in Tamil Nadu.
Source: The New Indian Express (Madurai Edition), adapted and analysed by LJRF Editorial Desk.
