The Kerala High Court directed the Union and State authorities to submit complete deportation records of Suraj Lama, a 59-year-old Bengaluru resident who went missing after being deported from Kuwait and landing at Kochi Airport. The Court stressed that it cannot form any conclusion until it reviews every official document relating to his deportation and subsequent handling by authorities.
A Division Bench of Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice M.B. Snehalatha issued the order while hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by Lama’s son seeking clarity on his father’s disappearance.
Court Seeks Full Documentation and Translations
The Bench expressed dissatisfaction with the initial statement provided by authorities, noting that it raised “more questions than answers.”
The Court directed the government to produce:
- All documents relating to Lama’s deportation from Kuwait
- Translations of foreign-language documents, certified for accuracy
- Proof of police requisition for the 108 ambulance that transported Lama from Kochi Airport to the Government Medical College Hospital, Ernakulam
The hospital report stated that Lama was brought in a 108 ambulance without anyone accompanying him and did not mention whether the police had actually requisitioned the vehicle—prompting the Court to demand clarity.
Bench Emphasizes Constitutional Protection
While refraining from further comments at this stage, the Bench reminded the authorities:
“Every citizen is equal under the Constitution.”
The Court stated that this guiding principle requires transparency and thoroughness from all departments involved in Lama’s deportation and subsequent disappearance.
Body Found in Kalamassery: Court Seeks Forensic Update
Authorities had earlier recovered a highly decomposed body from a wooded area in Kalamassery, raising concerns about a possible connection to Lama.
The Court asked the government pleader to provide updates on forensic and DNA testing, which are underway to determine whether the remains belong to him.
Background of the Case
- Lama, who worked in Kuwait, was deported to India in October 2025.
- He vanished shortly after arrival at Kochi Airport.
- His son filed a habeas corpus petition seeking answers from police, immigration officials, and airport authorities.
- Earlier hearings saw the Court pulling up officials for serious lapses and inconsistencies in their statements.
Next Hearing
The High Court posted the matter for further consideration on Monday, by which time authorities must provide the complete set of deportation documents and clarifications sought by the Bench.Case Title: Santon Lama v. State of Kerala and Ors.
