17 April 2024 Civil Rights >> Civil & Consumer Law  

In a recent order, a court highlighted the importance of swift action in cases involving externment orders. These orders, issued under the Goa Maintenance of Public Order and Safety Act, 1988, restrict a person's movement within a specific area. The court's decision comes in response to petitions filed by individuals challenging such orders.

The Petitioners had appealed the externment orders but faced delays from the appellate authority. These delays included postponing the consideration of their application for interim relief, which could have provided temporary freedom of movement while the appeals were pending. The court emphasized that such delays can significantly impact a person's fundamental right to liberty.

The court order stresses the urgency of handling externment cases. Due to the severe restriction on movement imposed by these orders, appeals against them should be dealt with expeditiously. The court ideally expects interim relief applications on these appeals to be decided within a week.

The court's directive mandates the appellate authority to dispose of the Petitioners' appeals by a specific deadline and communicate the decision to them within the same timeframe. This ensures a timely resolution to the case and minimizes the disruption caused by the externment orders.

This order serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting a person's fundamental right to freedom of movement. By directing a swift resolution in externment cases, the court ensures individuals have a fair chance to challenge such restrictions and regain their liberty.