Curbs at Nizamuddin Markaz needed because of diplomatic and cross-border implications, says Centre
Justifying the restrictions imposed at Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat congregation was held in March last year amid the pandemic, the Centre on Monday told the Delhi High Court that the case registered in relation to the alleged violation of COVID protocols is serious and has “cross-border implications”.
The Centre told the court that cases registered against foreigners found staying at the Markaz have diplomatic implications and that the curbs on the premises do not violate the right to practice religion. The court, in its response, marked that the premises cannot be kept locked forever.
“Since about 1,300 foreigners were found to be residing in the said premises and cases against them have cross-borders implications and involves nation’s diplomatic relationship with other countries, it is necessary and incumbent on the part of the Respondent to preserve the said premises for the purpose of Section 310 of CrPC,” the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a reply to the petition filed by Delhi Waqf Board for easing of restrictions at the Markaz.