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Controversy Erupts as Arundhati Roy Faces Prosecution Under UAPA Over Kashmir Conference Speech
Arundhati Roy's prosecution under UAPA for remarks on Kashmir sparks debate on free speech in India.
ND
by News Desk
2024-06-15
Controversy Erupts as Arundhati Roy Faces Prosecution Under UAPA Over Kashmir Conference Speech

Renowned Indian author Arundhati Roy and former Kashmir law Professor Sheikh Showkat Hussain are facing prosecution under India's Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) over their alleged participation in a 2010 conference discussing Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

 

The decision to prosecute Roy and Hussain stems from a conference titled 'Azadi - The Only Way', where speeches advocating Kashmir's separation from India were reportedly made. The conference featured prominent speakers including Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Syed Abdul Rahman Geelani.

 

The complaint leading to the filing of a first information report (FIR) against Roy and Hussain was lodged by Sushil Pandit in October 2010. Pandit accused them of delivering provocative speeches that allegedly supported Kashmir's independence from India.

 

Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena's approval for their prosecution has reignited discussions on freedom of expression and the use of anti-terrorism laws in India. Critics, including former IIOJK chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, have condemned the move as a violation of fundamental rights.

 

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions and differing perspectives on the Kashmir issue, with legal actions against individuals for their statements about the region remaining highly contentious and divisive.

 

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), enacted by the Indian Parliament in 1967, aims to prevent unlawful activities that threaten India's sovereignty and integrity. It has been amended over the years to strengthen measures against terrorist activities and organizations.
Tagged:

india

KASHMIR

FreedomOfExpression

UAPA

ArundhatiRoy
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