Guwahati: The Supreme Court of India has voiced serious concerns regarding the deplorable living conditions at the Matia Transit Camp in Assam, where individuals identified as foreign nationals are detained.
A bench led by Justice Abhay Oka and Justice A.G. Masih characterized the circumstances as “far from being satisfactory,” based on a report from the State Level Services Authority (SLSA) that revealed critical shortcomings in essential amenities.
During the proceedings, Justice Oka highlighted the camp’s dire state, stating, “No facility is in place. No vocational training center, no distance education. A female doctor is not available.” This statement underscored the lack of healthcare services for female detainees and the absence of educational and vocational resources vital for rehabilitation.
In light of these alarming deficiencies, the Supreme Court has mandated the Secretary of the relevant Assam government department to conduct an immediate inspection of the transit camp. The Secretary is required to convene a meeting with key authorities to ensure the establishment of necessary facilities within a month. The Court has also set a deadline for a comprehensive report on the improvements, due by December 9, when the case will be revisited.
Situated in Goalpara district, the Matia Transit Camp is recognized as India’s largest detention facility for those declared foreign nationals under the Foreigners Act of 1946. Since becoming operational in early 2023, the camp was envisioned as a humane alternative to traditional detention, yet it has been criticized for its substandard living conditions. Questions have arisen regarding the welfare of detainees, including individuals who have completed their sentences and others classified as foreign nationals by legal tribunals.
The facility covers approximately 20 bighas (about 28,800 square feet) and was constructed at a cost of Rs 46.51 crore. It comprises 15 buildings, including two designed specifically for women, with a total capacity of 3,000 individuals, including provisions for 400 female detainees. As of November 2024, the camp houses 224 detainees, including 210 Muslims and 14 Hindus, with 36 children among them.
Despite its extensive infrastructure, the Supreme Court highlighted significant deficiencies, including inadequate water supply, poor sanitation facilities, and subpar food quality. In response, the Assam State Legal Services Authority has been instructed to conduct surprise inspections aimed at evaluating and improving the conditions within the facility. The SLSA report that prompted the Court’s concern pointed out the lack of educational and vocational training opportunities, inadequate healthcare services, and a shortage of female medical staff.
Human rights organizations have previously condemned the camp for not meeting basic living standards, raising ongoing concerns about nutrition, sanitation, and the psychological support available to detainees, further complicating their challenging circumstances. The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure the dignity and welfare of all individuals held in such facilities.
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