Delhi High Court Order Cripples Consular, Visa Services at Four Indian Missions Abroad: Centre Informs Supreme Court

The functioning of consular and visa services at four Indian diplomatic missions overseas has been severely hampered following a Delhi High Court order, the Centre has informed the Supreme Court. This disruption has left numerous Indian citizens living abroad facing significant difficulties in accessing essential services, prompting the Union government to appeal the High Court's decision.

The Delhi High Court had previously annulled the selection process for private service providers tasked with managing these crucial functions. According to the government's submission to the apex court, this judicial intervention has brought these vital services to a complete standstill, creating a substantial operational challenge for the missions involved.

The immediate consequence of this legal setback is that Indian missions are now compelled to reallocate existing staff to handle emergency consular and visa requirements. This diversion of personnel means that routine applications and general services, which cater to a large segment of the Indian diaspora, are either delayed indefinitely or entirely unavailable, causing considerable inconvenience and distress to applicants.

Recognising the urgency of the situation and the widespread impact on Indian nationals, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear the Centre's appeal. The apex court is scheduled to take up the matter on Monday, raising hopes for a swift resolution to restore full functionality to these essential diplomatic services.