HC Issues Notice to Saudi Embassy Over Delay in Repatriation

December 12, 2025

JODHPUR, Dec 12, 2025 — The Rajasthan High Court on Thursday issued a notice to the Saudi Arabian embassy in New Delhi seeking a formal explanation for the prolonged delay in repatriating the mortal remains of a Rajasthan youth who died in Saudi Arabia.

Suspicious Death in Riyadh: Rajasthan HC Issues Notice to Saudi Embassy Over Delay in Repatriating Indian Worker’s Remains https://t.co/Xb0ua4c3rv

— LawTrend (@law_trend) December 12, 2025

Petition by Grieving Mother Triggers Court Action

The notice follows a petition filed by Teju Bai, mother of the deceased Ramesh Meghwal, a resident of Balotra district, who died under suspicious circumstances in Riyadh on November 13. The family has been waiting for nearly a month to bring his body back to India for last rites.

Court Directs Multiple Notices to Authorities

Justice Nupur Bhati of the High Court’s Jodhpur bench not only issued a notice to the Saudi Arabian embassy, but also directed similar notices to:

• Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri of India

• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) through the Joint Secretary for Gulf Countries

• Rajasthan Government via its Home Secretary

These actions aim to ensure accountability and timely response from diplomatic and government channels.

Indian Government’s Position in Court

During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General Bharat Vyas told the court that Saudi authorities have indicated the death was suspected to be a suicide and that the Riyadh police are still investigating, contributing to the delay. However, he assured the court that efforts are underway to expedite the repatriation process.

Background: Family’s Fight for Return of Body

The case drew public attention after Charmesh Sharma, former director of the Rajasthan Seeds Corporation, petitioned the President’s Secretariat on November 25, prompting communication from the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia. Despite the death certificate being issued on December 3, the family still awaits the body due to pending forensic reports.

Next Hearing and Family Distress

The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for December 17, when responses from the Saudi embassy and Indian authorities are expected. The prolonged delay has caused continued distress for Ramesh Meghwal’s family, who seek a dignified return of his remains to perform traditional last rites.