The Delhi High Court on Thursday allowed shifting of foreign nationals in relation to Nizamuddin Markaz who have been tested COVID-19 negative to alternate accommodation by following social distancing norms.
A division bench comprising of Justice Vipin Sanghi & Justice Rajnish Bhatnagar of Delhi High Court while conducting hearing through video conferencing noted that this order will be read with the magistrates, in case the concerned foreign nationals file bail applications in pursuance of the issuance of summons. Thereafter, the magistrate may impose further conditions if necessary while adjudicating.
The petition sought the release of approximately 947 foreign nationals, who allegedly participated in a religious event organized at Nizamuddin Markaz and have been quarantined since 30th March without being tested positive for COVID-19.
Earlier the status report of the Delhi Police stated that the foreign nationals concerned have not been detained and are not in custody or arrested. The Counsel appearing for the Delhi Police submitted before the court that the charge sheets against all the foreign nationals concerned will be filed within this week.
The Delhi Revenue Department has submitted their status report on Wednesday in the case along with the No Objection Certificate regarding allowing the shifting of foreign nationals to alternate places of accommodation. Whereas, the Delhi Police along with the Central Government orally submitted their NOCs for the same as well. Counsel Appearing for the Delhi Police also informed the Court that there have been 47 charge sheets filed against foreign nationals to date.
The Court while disposing of the petition directed that the magistrate will have to keep in mind the order passed by this Court.
-India Legal Bureau