Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: The Delhi High Court has ruled that a foreigner cannot claim the right to reside in India under Article 19(1)(e) of the Constitution, which grants all citizens the right to reside and settle in any part of India.
- The judgment came during the hearing of a habeas corpus petition filed by the uncle of Azal Chakma, a suspected Bangladeshi national, alleging Chakma’s illegal custody.
- The court emphasized that a foreign national cannot assert the right to reside in India and referred to the Supreme Court’s decision, stating that the Indian government’s power to expel foreigners is absolute and unlimited.
Article 19(1)(e) of the constitution grants the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India as a fundamental right under the Right to Freedom.
However, Reasonable restrictions on this right can be imposed by law-
in the interest of the general public, or for the protection of interest of any Scheduled Tribe.
