NCP chief Sharad Pawar criticized Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's recent decision to prosecute author Arundhati Roy under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for an alleged provocative speech made 14 years ago. The NCP chief described the move as a "misuse of power" during a joint press conference with Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan. Along with Roy, former Central University of Kashmir professor Sheikh Showkat Hussain has also been named in the FIR for the controversial conference which allegedly advocated for the separation of Kashmir from India.
Background:
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) is a controversial Indian law that allows the government to designate individuals and organizations as "terrorists" and detain them without trial for up to 180 days. The law has been criticized for its broad definition of terrorism, which has led to the arrest and prosecution of activists, journalists, and other dissenting voices.
Current Event:
On February 23, 2023, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena ordered the prosecution of renowned author Arundhati Roy under UAPA for an alleged provocative speech she made at a conference in 2009. The speech was titled "Azadi: Freedom. Fascism. Fiction." and allegedly advocated for the separation of Kashmir from India.
Response from NCP Chief Sharad Pawar:
NCP chief Sharad Pawar strongly criticized Saxena's decision, calling it a "misuse of power." Pawar spoke alongside Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan at a joint press conference.
Pawar argued that Roy's speech did not amount to terrorism and that the use of UAPA against her was a dangerous precedent. He also said that the move was an attempt to stifle dissent and opposition to the government.
Other Reactions:
Roy has also condemned the charges, saying that she will not be silenced. She has vowed to fight the case in court.
Human rights groups have also expressed concern over the use of UAPA against Roy. Amnesty International called it "a blatant attempt to intimidate and silence a prominent critic of the government."
FAQs:
1. What is the UAPA? The UAPA is an Indian law that allows the government to designate individuals and organizations as "terrorists" and detain them without trial for up to 180 days.
2. Why is Arundhati Roy being prosecuted under UAPA? Roy is being prosecuted for an alleged provocative speech she made at a conference in 2009 that was interpreted as advocating for the separation of Kashmir from India.
3. What has been the reaction to Roy's prosecution? Human rights groups and opposition leaders have condemned the prosecution as a misuse of power and an attempt to stifle dissent.
4. What are the potential consequences if Roy is convicted? Roy could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted under UAPA.
5. What is the significance of Pawar's criticism? Pawar's criticism is significant because he is a senior and respected opposition leader. His statement reflects a growing concern among opposition parties over the misuse of UAPA by the government.
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