Rights activists, lawyers call for abolition of UAPA, release of political prisoners
New Delhi: Prominent rights activists and lawyers have demanded the immediate abolition of draconian laws and the release of all individuals detained under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
According to Kashmir Media Service, At a well-attended public meeting organized by Jan Hastakshep, an anti-fascist forum, at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, speakers highlighted the plight of individuals imprisoned under the provisions of oppressive laws like the UAPA for seemingly trivial offenses.
The meeting aimed to remind the public that while India was undergoing a critical parliamentary election, safeguarding democracy depended on the populace’s ability to exercise their constitutional rights. Speakers emphasized that such laws had no place in a democratic society and urged for the release of all individuals detained under the UAPA. The meeting was chaired and conducted by Dr. Anoop Saraya.
Advocate Gonzalves expressed concern over growing conflicts within the judiciary regarding its duty to protect citizens’ democratic rights. He cited several rulings from the Indian Supreme Court and different high courts, underscoring worries about the judiciary’s independence.
Advocate Parikh discussed how the courts had gradually shifted criminal jurisprudence, enabling individuals to be charged under terror legislation without committing a terror act. He stressed the need for a people’s movement to abolish draconian laws rather than relying solely on judicial wisdom.
Advocate Shahrukh Alam compared India’s legal system to that of other countries, highlighting differences in law enforcement procedures and the judiciary’s approach to civil liberties.
Prof. Nandini Sundar criticized the government’s actions, alleging that laws like the UAPA were used to suppress dissent rather than curb terrorism. She cited cases of individuals being labeled terrorists for advocating for their democratic rights.
A resolution demanding the immediate abolition of the UAPA and the release of all detainees under the Act was unanimously passed at the end of the meeting.
