The Madras High Court has directed the Union government to consider formulating a comprehensive policy to support Indian citizens living and working overseas, stressing that the State’s responsibility toward its people does not end at national borders. The Court observed that Indians abroad often face legal, economic, and humanitarian challenges, and require structured institutional support from their home country.
While underscoring the constitutional duty of the government, the Court drew inspiration from ancient Indian political and legal thought. Referring to the teachings of Kautilya and Manu on Rajadharma, the bench noted that good governance has historically been understood as the ruler’s obligation to protect the welfare, dignity, and rights of citizens at all times and in all places. This principle, the Court said, remains relevant in the modern constitutional framework.
The Court pointed out that although various ad hoc measures and schemes exist, the absence of a unified policy often leaves overseas Indians without timely assistance during crises such as legal disputes, labour exploitation, detention, or emergencies. It therefore called upon the Centre to explore a structured mechanism that clearly defines the nature and extent of support to be extended through diplomatic missions and other institutions.
Emphasising that global migration has made citizen protection a complex but essential task, the High Court urged the government to align administrative action with constitutional values and India’s civilisational ethos. The direction reflects a broader view of governance, blending contemporary constitutional obligations with enduring principles of Rajadharma that place citizen welfare at the core of state responsibility.
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