The Delhi High Court has ruled that the right to hold a passport and travel abroad is an integral facet of personal liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The court emphasized that any state action impinging upon this right must strictly adhere to the principles of natural justice and satisfy the test of reasonableness.
The judgment came while setting aside the Centre’s order impounding the passport of Yogesh Raheja, former director of Raheja Developers. Authorities had claimed Raheja failed to disclose the pendency of an FIR against him at the time of applying for renewal, but the court found the reasons insufficient under law.
Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav, delivering the order, observed that the right to travel abroad is not a privilege but a constitutional guarantee linked to personal liberty. He noted that curtailing such rights requires due process and cannot be exercised arbitrarily.
The ruling reinforces judicial precedent that freedom of movement, including international travel, is a protected right under Article 21. Legal experts say the decision strengthens safeguards against excessive executive action and underscores the importance of balancing state interests with individual liberties.
The case has drawn attention to broader debates on civil rights in India, particularly the scope of personal liberty and the limits of state power in restricting mobility. The judgment is expected to influence future cases involving passport impoundment and travel restrictions.
