SC Slams Repeated PILs on Rohingya Deportation, Calls Claims a Beautifully Crafted Story

Rohingya Deportation PIL — In a strong rebuke, the Supreme Court of India on Friday expressed displeasure over the repeated filing of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) aimed at halting the deportation of Rohingya Muslims, stating that such petitions must present fresh, credible evidence. The court also questioned the veracity of recent allegations made by advocate Colin Gonsalves, who claimed that 28 Rohingyas were forcefully deported to Myanmar by being pushed into the sea near the Andaman Islands.

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta remarked that the claims appeared to be a “beautifully crafted story” that lacked substantiating proof. “Every time, there is a new story. Now where is this beautifully crafted story coming from? Who took the videos and photos? How did they come back? What is the material on record?” Justice Nath asked during the hearing.

No Relief Without Proof, Says Apex Court

The apex court emphasized that without prima facie evidence, it cannot issue any interim relief, especially after the same issue was already addressed in a previous ruling. On May 8, the court had declined to grant relief to the Rohingya community, reiterating that they are not Indian citizens and, therefore, do not have the right to reside in any part of the country.

Justice Mehta added, “When the nation is grappling with sensitive issues, such fanciful and speculative PILs dilute the sanctity of public interest litigation. Vague and sweeping allegations, unsupported by credible material, cannot be entertained.”

Colin Gonsalves Alleges Forced Deportation

Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, representing the petitioners, alleged that Indian authorities had taken 28 Rohingyas from detention camps to the Andaman Islands and pushed them into the sea with life jackets. According to Gonsalves, the deported individuals later contacted their relatives in New Delhi upon reaching Myanmar.

Despite the gravity of the claim, the court remained unconvinced, pointing out the absence of any video evidence, photographs, or official confirmation to support the narrative.

UN Report To Be Addressed on July 31

While Gonsalves attempted to bring in a recent United Nations report as supplementary material, the court refused to comment on it during Friday’s hearing. “We do not want to comment on the UN report today. We will give our observations on July 31, when this petition, along with the pending one, will be heard,” the bench noted.

Supreme Court Sets Boundaries on PILs

The bench also made it clear that new PILs on the same subject cannot be filed unless there are substantial developments or new facts brought to light. The judges stressed the importance of judicial economy and cautioned against misuse of PILs for agenda-driven litigation.