The recent passing of GN Saibaba, a prominent academician and human rights activist, has sparked outrage and reflection on the state of governmental institutions and their treatment of marginalized communities. Saibaba, a wheelchair-bound man with a severe disability, was arrested and wrongfully incarcerated for his activism. Even in the face of brutality, Saibaba remained steadfast in his fight for justice and the rights of Adivasis and other marginalized groups. Sadly, he was not even allowed to say goodbye to his mother before her death due to the relentless and corrupt justice system. As we remember and honour the life of GN Saibaba, we are reminded of the continued struggle for justice and humanity in a world where authoritarianism and extremism continue to prevail.
After a decade-long legal battle, former Delhi University professor Dr GN Saibaba passed away at the age of 58. He was arrested under the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for alleged association with the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist). Despite being acquitted multiple times, the state continuously appealed against his release. Known as a staunch human rights activist and beloved professor, Saibaba's unfortunate death raises questions about the misuse of laws and the true identity of a man who fought for social causes.
On Saturday, former Assistant Professor G N Saibaba passed away at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad after undergoing treatment for post-operative complications. Saibaba, who hailed from Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, was a teacher at Delhi University but was terminated in 2014. He was arrested for alleged Maoist links and was granted bail in 2016, only to receive a life sentence under the UAPA in 2017. However, in a turn of events, he was acquitted in 2022 and again in 2024.
The Supreme Court has intervened in the case of former Delhi University professor GN Saibaba, who was acquitted by the Bombay High Court in a case accusing him of Maoist links. The High Court had overturned his life sentence and acquitted five other defendants due to lack of evidence. However, the Supreme Court had previously directed a fresh appeal hearing.