FATHIMA RIYASA Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard both sides.

(2.) The writ petitioner is a Srilankan citizen. She fell in love with one Abdul Jabar, an Indian citizen, and eventually married him. The marriage was solemnized in Srilanka on 16/6/2018. The petitioner came to India on an Indian visa. The couple set up their matrimonial home in Pudukkottai District. Two children were born through the wedlock. In the meanwhile, the petitioner's Indian visa as well as Srilankan passport expired. She has sought renewal of both. She has also applied for Indian citizenship. Since it has not been forwarded by the District Collector, Pudukkottai to the Central Government, this writ petition has been filed seeking grant of Indian citizenship.

(3.) The Central Government has filed counter affidavit. Their stand is that since the petitioner is an illegal immigrant, her case for grant of citizenship cannot be considered.