High Court Orders Release and Repatriation of Bangladeshi Prisoner Who Spent 21 Years in Jail

Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court has ordered the release and repatriation of a Bangladeshi national who spent more than 21 years in prison in India, after noting that he was a minor at the time of his arrest.

The court directed the authorities of West Bengal to take immediate steps to facilitate the prisoner’s return to his home country, Bangladesh.

According to the case records, the man was arrested in the early 2000s for allegedly entering India illegally. However, during the hearing of his appeal, it emerged that he was under 18 years of age when he was detained, which meant he should have been treated under juvenile justice laws rather than being kept in regular prison custody.

While hearing the plea, the High Court observed that the appellant had already spent over two decades in jail, far exceeding the possible punishment for the offence he was accused of. The court said continuing his detention would be unjust and ordered his immediate release.

The bench further instructed the state government and concerned authorities to coordinate with diplomatic channels and immigration officials to arrange his safe repatriation to Bangladesh. Officials have been asked to complete the necessary procedures and communicate with Bangladeshi authorities to ensure his return.

Legal experts said the case highlights serious concerns about prolonged detention and the treatment of foreign nationals in prison, especially when questions regarding age and legal status are involved.

With the High Court’s order, the man is expected to be released from jail soon, after which the process of repatriating him to Bangladesh through official channels will begin.