The United Nations Human Rights Office, in a pronouncement rife with consternation, has voiced its profound disquiet over India’s employment of anti-terror legislation to quell dissenting voices. It has unequivocally urged the authorities to relinquish the charges leveled against the illustrious author Arundhati Roy, stemming from her pronouncements on the intricate Kashmir issue.
This disquieting development arose earlier this month when the Delhi Lieutenant Governor sanctioned the prosecution of Ms. Roy and a former academic under the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for allegedly inflammatory speeches delivered over a decade ago.
The UN Human Rights Office, led by the esteemed High Commissioner Volker Turk, reiterated its longstanding call for a comprehensive review of the UAPA, a law that has been criticized for its broad and often indiscriminate application. This recent appeal comes on the heels of Ms. Roy being honored with the prestigious Pen Pinter Prize for her unflinching and unwavering literary contributions.
The UN’s intervention underscores the global concern regarding the potential misuse of anti-terror laws to suppress legitimate dissent and curtail freedom of expression.
Key Points:
- UN concern: The UN Human Rights Office expressed concern over the use of the UAPA to silence critics in India.
- Call for review: The UN urged a review of the UAPA and the release of human rights defenders detained under it.
- Arundhati Roy case: The UN specifically urged India to drop the case against Arundhati Roy and Sheikh Showkat Hussain over comments on Kashmir.
Sunil Garnayak is an expert in Indian news with extensive knowledge of the nation’s political, social, and economic landscape and international relations. With years of experience in journalism, Sunil delivers in-depth analysis and accurate reporting that keeps readers informed about the latest developments in India. His commitment to factual accuracy and nuanced storytelling ensures that his articles provide valuable insights into the country’s most pressing issues.
