Retired judges and senior lawyers write to CJI over remarks on Rohingya refugees

Key Highlights

• “When those who flee violence and persecution are dismissed with rhetoric that is hostile to their very dignity, it threatens the foundational values of our Constitution and undermines public faith in the courts as a refuge for the vulnerable… We therefore call upon you to reaffirm, in public statements, remarks in court and judicial verdicts, a commitment to constitutional morality based on human dignity and justice for all, regardless of origin.
• The majesty of the Supreme Court and your office is measured not merely by the number of verdicts or administrative measures but more by the humanity with which those verdicts are delivered and considered,” the open letter addressed to Chief Justice Kant said.
• The letter recalled India’s track record of hosting refugees of different profiles and extending humanitarian protection while balancing national security interests and the concerns of its citizens.
• “The government has issued special documentation to Tibetans and Sri Lankans, recognizing their status as refugees, and allowing them to access basic socio-economic rights… The Citizenship Amendment Act, in fact grants exemption from the provisions of the Foreigners Act to religious minorities (other than Muslims), fleeing persecution, from Bangladesh, Pakistan or Afghanistan,” it read.
• The letter was signed by former Delhi High Court Chief Justice A.