HC directs to furnish planned steps to face situation on expats' repatriation

Kochi: The Kerala High Court has directed the Centre and state governments to give details on the steps taken to face the situation after the expats return.  Details of the facilities set up in this regard should be provided.

The Centre is required to inform its stance on the demand to give priority to pregnant women, aged people and other ailing people among the expats.

Justices Shaji P. Chali and Ashok Menon directed that the quarantine steps should be in line with the Central guidelines.

The court was considering the pleas of Kerala Muslim Culture Centre (KMCC) of Dubai and others who demanded the expats’ repatriation.

The Central and state governments submitted that all facilities are set up in line with  the circular issued by the Union government.  At this point, the court asked for the submission in record.  Additional Advocate General informed that the records will be submitted before 8th of this month when the plea will be considered again.

The counsel representing KMCC pointed out that only 400 people can be transported per day as per the prepared schedule. As of now, only two flights per week are scheduled for Kerala.

One and a half lakh people have registered themselves with NORKA for repatriation.  Of these, 9,000 are pregnant women. UAE's Emirates airline is  willing to operate their flights if required, provided that the Central government gives permission. The court asked the Centre to inform its stance in this regard.