Suraj Lama Missing Case: Kerala High Court Slams Lapses In Handling Deported Indian, Asks “What Protocol We Have In Civilised Country?”

The Kerala High Court on Thursday (December 04) expressed concern over the administrative handling of Suraj Lama, an Indian citizen who was reportedly deported from Kuwait and subsequently went missing after arriving in Kochi.The Division Bench comprising Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice M.B. Snehalatha were hearing the habeas corpus plea filed by the missing man's son.It is reported that Lama was deported from Kuwait due to some vitiating factor. After his arrival in Kochi, he was stated to have been allowed to walk free without being entrusted to any responsible authority.The Court questioned how such a lapse could occur, especially when deportation by a foreign state is usually based on reasons ranging from medical issues to criminal or security concerns. It expressed shock that a deported individual was allowed to simply exit through emigration channels without any form of evaluation, or surveillance.“We don't understand how a person who has been deported could have been left free like this without him being given in charge to a person who could have been trusted,” the Court remarked. Turning to Central Government counsel, the Bench sought clarity on the protocol followed by Indian authorities when a citizen is deported back to the country.“We want to know what is the guideline the government of India has with respect to a deported person. What are the protocols that need to be followed? If a person is deported for a disease like COVID or something, do we let the person to walk around? Or for terrorism, do we let him walk loose. What kind of protocol do we have in a civilised country? We are shocked.. I don't know how to react. Is it not necessary that the person who is deported be in charge of someone who can be trusted?”, Justice Devan Ramachandran said. In the present case, Lama is said to be mentally unwell and suffering from cognitive impairment. After arrival, he was reportedly taken to the Medical College Hospital, but later disappeared and has not been seen since. Although a body has been found, the Court expressed hope that it does not belong to Lama. The Court had previously directed the Director General of Police to make available a detailed report about the body.Additionally, the Superintendent of the Medical College Hospital, where Lama was stated to have been taken to by the Police, was directed to make available to it all reports.Today, the Government Pleader sought additional time for the competent authorities to file the response, while an interim report was submitted by the Deputy Superintendent of Police.The interim report confirmed that Suraj Lama, who arrived at Nedumbassery Airport on 05.10.2025, was later seen on 08.10.2025 and 10.10.2025 by the Thrikkakara Police and locals as he left the Kalamaserry Medical College on the night he was brought there.The Deputy Superintendent of Police, in his report has sought time to file a detailed report stating there are extensive law and order duties in connection with the upcoming Local Self-government Elections.“Elections can't stop us from doing our work….. but we want to know what happened prior to. Mr. Lama arrived at the airport on 05.10.2025, he was seen on 08.10.2025 and 10.10.2025 and was brought to the hospital by 108 ambulance. The point is how did he leave the hospital. At whose authority was he admitted, if he was admitted. We want details like that from the hospital. The elections cannot stop us.” the Court orally remarked.Stating that accountability must be fixed at every level, the Court directed the Deputy Solicitor General of India and the State Government Pleader to obtain specific instructions on all issues raised and to furnish a comprehensive response at the next hearing.The matter is posted on December 10 for further consideration. Case No: WP (Crl) No. 1421/2025Case Title: Santon Lama v. State of Kerala and Ors. Click Here To Read/ Download Interim Order

Suraj Lama Missing Case: Kerala High Court Slams Lapses In Handling Deported Indian, Asks “What Protocol We Have In Civilised Country?”

Anamika MJ

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