Norka Special Secretary directed to hear Pravasi Legal Cell petition and rule within six weeks
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The Kerala High Court has directed the Special Secretary of the Norka Department to take a lawful decision within a maximum of six weeks regarding the sharp premium hike introduced in the Norka Care 2026–27 scheme.
The directive follows a writ petition filed jointly by the Pravasi Legal Cell (PLC), Mustafa Thondiyil, and Abdul Hakeem. The court instructed the Norka Secretary to consider the representation submitted by TN Krishnakumar, President of the Pravasi Legal Cell Dubai Chapter, conduct a formal hearing with the petitioners and relevant stakeholders, and issue a reasoned order within six weeks of receiving a certified copy of the judgment.
Pravasi Legal Cell approached the High Court challenging the transition from the group-based insurance model of 2025–26 to an age-linked premium structure for 2026–27. The plea raised concerns over policy continuity for existing Non-Resident Keralite (NRK) beneficiaries, the rationale behind the steep financial escalation, and the failure to provide adequate advance notice before revising terms.
Under the 2025–26 framework, expatriates paid a uniform annual premium of Rs 13,411 for a Rs 5 lakh family health cover. Under the revised 2026–27 age-slab structure, the premium jumped to Rs 35,664 for individuals aged 51 to 60, and Rs 44,718 for those aged 61 to 70. The change represents a premium surge between 166 percent and 233 percent for older diaspora members.
The petition also highlighted procedural lapses regarding prior intimation. Despite regulations requiring at least 45 days of advance notice for policy renewal changes, the revised pricing structure was announced just four days before the previous cycle expired. The existing policy concluded on October 31, 2026, and the age-linked rates took effect on November 1, 2026, leaving subscribers without sufficient window to review alternatives or adjust financial plans.
Through its representation, the organization urged authorities to withdraw the age-based model, reinstate the uniform group insurance framework, and grant an uninterrupted extension of existing coverage. Krishnakumar reiterated that the Norka Department must conduct the hearing promptly to protect the financial welfare of expatriates.
