Russia-Ukraine crisis: Open helplines to know whereabouts of Indian nationals and students, SC suggests to govt.

‘We appreciate what the government is doing but at the same time we are concerned about the anxiety of parents, families of these children,’ says CJI Ramana

The Supreme Court on March 4 orally suggested to the government to open up online helplines so that parents and families can know the whereabouts of students and Indian nationals making their way out of conflict zones in Ukraine.

“We are concerned... You can keep an online helpline so that parents, families can know where the students are... Some State governments are doing it in their State bhavana... Trying to contact children. You work out something, we are not passing any orders,” Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana, heading a three-judge Bench, addressed Attorney General K.K. Venugopal, appearing for the Centre.

Mr. Venugopal defensively said the court could be assured that the “government is as concerned as Your Lordships” about the safety and evacuation of Indians coming out of Ukraine.

“Please understand we appreciate what the government is doing but at the same time we are concerned about the anxiety of parents, families of these children,” the Chief Justice responded.

“Your Lordships concern will certainly be taken into account,” Mr. Venugopal said. During the hearing, the CJI explained it was “unfortunate that we have not learnt the lessons from history about human race fighting wars and killing people... I know that conflicts can be resolved... However, here we have no say in that issue... But our anxiety is how to save lives of students and Indians caught in the zone”.

Mr. Venugopal said 17,000 Indians had already been evacuated. He said the government was “tackling the problem” and the 7,000 left would also be swiftly evacuated.

The top law officer said the Prime Minister had held a meeting with Cabinet Ministers to further pursue the cause of evacuation and ensure that it was completed swiftly.