Why Is the Saudi Arabian Embassy Delaying the Return of a Rajasthan Youth’s Mortal Remains?
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Synopsis
The Rajasthan High Court has taken a bold step by issuing a notice to the Saudi Arabian embassy regarding the delay in repatriating the remains of Ramesh Kumar Meghwal, a young man from Rajasthan who died under mysterious circumstances. His family seeks closure and answers as they await the return of their loved one.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan High Court intervenes in humanitarian case.
- Family of deceased seeks closure after prolonged delay.
- Legal representatives are advocating for the family’s rights.
- Saudi Arabian government to respond to court notice.
- Next hearing scheduled for December 17.
Jaipur, Dec 12 (NationPress) The High Court has served a notice to the Saudi Arabian embassy in New Delhi, demanding clarification regarding the extended delay in the repatriation of the mortal remains of a Rajasthan youth, who tragically passed away on November 13, leaving his family in despair.
In a significant move, the Rajasthan High Court in Jodhpur intervened on Thursday, issuing a notice to the Saudi Arabian government after the body of Ramesh Kumar Meghwal, a resident of Balotra district, had not been dispatched even after a lengthy 28 days post his demise.
Justice Nupur Bhati has called for a response from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through its Embassy in New Delhi, following a petition lodged by the deceased’s mother, Teeju Bai.
Legal professionals view this as a noteworthy judicial action, as it is uncommon for a court to issue a notice to a foreign government on a humanitarian issue.
The next hearing is set for December 17, where representatives from both the Saudi and Indian governments will present their cases.
Ramesh Kumar Meghwal, who hailed from Meghwalon Ki Dhani in Gida tehsil, died under questionable circumstances in Saudi Arabia on November 13.
When the body was not returned for several weeks, Charmesh Sharma, former Director of the Rajasthan Seeds Corporation and known for assisting distressed Indians abroad, filed complaints with the President’s Secretariat, the National Human Rights Commission, and the Ministry of External Affairs. Consequently, the President’s Secretariat mandated the Ministry of External Affairs to take necessary actions, to which the ministry responded.
However, after 27 days of no advancement in the body’s repatriation, the grieving family, supported legally by Sharma, approached the High Court. On Wednesday, Ramesh’s mother, Teeju Bai, submitted a petition through advocates Sushil Vishnoi and Sunil Purohit, pleading for one final farewell with her son. Acknowledging the urgency, the High Court scheduled the matter for the next day.
In addition to the Saudi Embassy, the High Court also directed notices to the Government of India through Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, the Joint Secretary (Gulf Countries) of the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Government of Rajasthan via its Home Secretary.
Advocate Sushil Vishnoi represented the petitioner, while ASG Bharat Vyas appeared for the Indian government.
Following Sharma’s petition at the President’s Secretariat on November 25, the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia responded on November 26, indicating that the Saudi Police were still probing the case.
The Embassy stated that the body would only be handed over after the forensic medical report was issued. A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Embassy could be provided only after the body was received. On December 3, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh issued Ramesh Kumar's death certificate, citing the cause of death as suicide. However, the Embassy informed the family that due to the absence of a medical report from the Saudi Police, it was unable to assist in the body’s return.
Point of View
This case highlights the complexities of international repatriation laws and the emotional toll such delays can impose on families. The intervention by the Rajasthan High Court underscores the importance of accountability in humanitarian matters, especially in cases involving foreign governments.
NationPress
12/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the High Court's intervention?
The Rajasthan High Court intervened following a petition from Ramesh Kumar Meghwal's mother, who sought answers regarding the prolonged delay in repatriating her son's body.
What circumstances surrounded Ramesh Kumar Meghwal's death?
Ramesh Kumar Meghwal died under suspicious circumstances in Saudi Arabia on November 13, prompting concerns from his family regarding the circumstances and the delay in returning his remains.
How has the Indian government responded?
The Indian government, through the Embassy in Saudi Arabia, stated that the body would only be released after the completion of investigations and the issuance of a forensic report.
What actions have been taken by local advocates?
Local advocates, including Sushil Vishnoi and Sunil Purohit, have represented the family in court, pushing for a swift resolution to the repatriation of Ramesh Kumar's remains.
When is the next court hearing scheduled?
The next hearing is scheduled for December 17, where the positions of both the Saudi and Indian governments will be presented.
