NEW DELHI: In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has instructed the Indian High Commission in London to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the wife of the late Alfi Richard Watts, facilitating the transfer of his mortal remains from the United Kingdom to Hyderabad. This court directive marks an important step in ensuring that Watts’ family can lay him to rest in accordance with their wishes.

The case was brought to the Delhi High Court by Watts' father, who expressed concern over the delay in the repatriation process. Despite receiving full support from UK authorities, including a local Member of Parliament and a County Councillor, the transfer had been stalled due to the Indian High Commission's refusal to issue an NOC. The refusal, issued on July 29, 2024, was based on Watts' status as a British citizen without an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.

On August 16, Justice Sanjeev Narula overturned this decision, stating that the previous communication from the Consular Section of the Indian High Commission in London was invalid. The court ordered the High Commission to issue the necessary NOC to Watts' wife, Sharon Alphonso, allowing the remains to be transported from the UK to Hyderabad.

Advocates Avinash Mathews and Namrata Caleb, representing Watts' father, argued that the inconsistency in consular guidelines across different Indian diplomatic posts had led to arbitrary treatment. They emphasized that the essential consular services related to human dignity and family rights should not depend on the deceased's nationality or specific documentation, such as a PIO or OCI card. Given Watts' Indian origin, evidenced by his birth and familial ties to Indian citizens, they urged the court to consider these connections in the repatriation process.

The court further noted that while the Indian High Commission in London required an OCI card for repatriation, similar Indian consulates in other countries, such as Singapore and the USA, did not enforce this requirement. This inconsistency highlighted the need for a more uniform and fair approach to handling such sensitive matters worldwide.

The court concluded that, since it had been confirmed that Watts was of Indian origin, the repatriation should proceed, and the family’s request was granted. This ruling is seen as a victory for the deceased’s family and for ensuring consistent treatment in consular services across borders.

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