Sunali Khatun and her 8-year-old son have been brought back to India after the Supreme Court directed the Centre to ensure their safe return from Bangladesh, according to a report by ANI. The woman who is in the advanced stage of pregnancy was earlier deported on suspicion of being a Bangladeshi national, a decision that was later questioned in court.
Sunali crossed into Indian territory through the Mehadipur border outpost in West Bengal’s Malda district on Friday evening. While speaking to ANI upon her return, an emotional Sunali stated, “I am very happy after returning to India…I want my husband to be brought back safely as well.”
Supreme Court stresses humanitarian approach
As per ANI, the Centre submitted before the Supreme Court that Sunali and her child will be brought back “on humanitarian grounds.” The bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, directed authorities to provide her free medical services because of her pregnancy and to ensure the welfare of her son.
During the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant stated that the State must sometimes “bend in humanitarian interest,” and asked the government to arrange all necessary facilities during their repatriation.
Sunali maintains she is the daughter of Indian citizen Bhodu Sheikh. Earlier, on September 26, the Calcutta High Court had set aside her deportation. The court termed it “illegal,” based on petitions submitted by her father. The Supreme Court will take up the matter again on December 12.
Family still not together as legal battle continues
As per the Indian Express report, Sunali, her husband, Danish Shiekh, and their son were sent to Bangladesh on June 26 after being detained in Delhi. Another woman, Sweety Bibi, with two children was also sent along with them.
Except for Sunali and her son, the others remain in Bangladesh as the Centre disputes their citizenship.
Describing the struggle to bring her back, social worker Mofizul Islam told The Indian Express, “After months of legal battle, we have been able to secure the return of Sunali and her son… We will not rest till we get them back.”
Trinamool Congress MP Samirul Islam also reacted on X, calling it a significant moment. “After a long battle, Sunali Khatun and her minor son have returned to India…a historic moment after six months of suffering.” He added that the return became possible only after the matter was urgently mentioned again before the Supreme Court.
After crossing the border, Sunali was taken to Malda Medical College Hospital for medical observation.