The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has warmly welcomed the Supreme Court of India’s landmark decision cautioning enforcement agencies against the hasty detention and arrest of international travellers and quashing the FIR against Italy-based NRI Rocky Abraham.
Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal said this judgment sends a strong and timely message that no citizen, especially NRIs who maintain strong emotional and economic ties with India, should be subjected to arbitrary action or harassment at airports and entry points. “Such incidents not only cause immense personal suffering but also bring India’s reputation into question on the international stage,” Chahal stated.
He lauded the Supreme Court for highlighting the need to sensitize enforcement officers to prevailing laws and human rights obligations before taking drastic steps like detention or arrest. “The Court has upheld the dignity and rights of NRIs and travelers, and reminded officials that law enforcement must be guided by fairness, not fear or haste,” he added.
Chahal further said that NAPA has consistently raised concerns about ill-treatment, unnecessary questioning, and arbitrary detentions faced by overseas Indians during their visits to India. “This decision will help restore confidence among NRIs who contribute immensely to India’s economy and global image,” he said.
NAPA urged the Government of India and state enforcement agencies to implement the Supreme Court’s directives in letter and spirit, ensure proper legal guidance to officers at all airports, and establish accountability mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future.
“This ruling is not just about one NRI — it is a step toward protecting the dignity, freedom, and fundamental rights of every Indian citizen, whether at home or abroad,” Chahal concluded.