New Delhi [India], January 8: The Delhi High Court dismissed a petition seeking a rehabilitation package for individuals granted citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), stating that the issue falls under government policy and does not warrant judicial intervention.
The court emphasized, “The question of how extensive a rehabilitation package is required is fundamentally a matter of policy.” It also noted that the petitioner had already submitted a representation to the authorities regarding a comprehensive package for those who migrated from Pakistan.
The petitioners had called for a rehabilitation package that extended beyond housing to include essential services such as healthcare, education, clean water, electricity, and sanitation. They argued that these basic services are vital to ensure a dignified life for individuals who migrated from Pakistan and were granted citizenship under the CAA.
Previously, the bench of Justice Sanjeev Narula had suggested that the petitioners refile the case as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the proper format to seek comprehensive relief.
The petitioners, including Akhil Bhartiya Dharam Prasar Samiti and other NGOs, had sought directions from the authorities for the provision of essential services to Pakistani Hindu refugees living in temporary settlements (bastis) in Delhi. They also requested that these settlements not be disturbed or demolished.
The petitioners highlighted that despite assurances from the Ministry of Home Affairs, DUSIB, and DDA, little progress had been made in providing for these refugees, who had migrated from Pakistan due to religious persecution and had received citizenship under the 2019 amendment. They argued that as Indian citizens, these refugees are entitled to protection under Article 21 of the Constitution and should receive basic necessities of life.
The petition also pointed to a recent demolition notice issued by the DDA to Pakistani Hindu refugees residing in Majnu Ka Tilla, directing them to vacate the camps within 24 hours.