Former SC judges raise questions over mega NRC exercise

Amidst the NRC row, former judges of the Supreme Court have raised serious questions over the mega exercise that has just been completed.

The three former judges comprising – Joseph Kurien, AP Shah and Modun Lokur have casted serious doubts over the entire exercise which was monitored by the Supreme Court.

The former judges said since the apex court has carried out what should have been an administrative exercise, the scope for relief to people may not be there easily.

Taking part in the People’s Tribunal, a public hearing on “Constitutional processes and human cost”, organised by civil society groups in New Delhi, the three former judges expressed their concerns over the matter.

The jury heard individual testimonies of people from Assam participating in the process of updating the NRC and legal experts.

Addressing the program, former judge AP Shah wondered if the updation of the citizens register was done in accordance with the constitutional provisions.

The former judge also said that individuals whose names have been excluded are facing trouble in getting their names listed as they have to travel long distances to appear before the authorities.

Taking part in the ‘public hearing’, Madan Lokur delivered his informal ‘judgement’ and said that the NRC process is not free of errors. Lokur believes that there was lack of thoughts and necessary planning in carrying out the exercise.

On the other hand, Kurien Joseph in his observation said that a person who has been excluded from final NRC must be ensured that they have the Right to Equality and the Right to Dignity. However, the former judge expressed concern that such individuals may be denied legal aid.