In a recent development, Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has granted sanction to prosecute renowned author Arundhati Roy under the stringent Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) for her alleged ‘provocative’ speech at an event in 2010. This decision comes after Saxena’s approval to prosecute Roy and former Central University of Kashmir professor Sheikh Showkat Hussain last October under different sections of the Indian Penal Code.
The Raj Niwas officials confirmed the sanction, stating that Roy and Dr. Sheikh Showkat Hussain are to be prosecuted under section 45 (1) of the UAPA. The basis for this action revolves around the content of speeches made at the event, which allegedly advocated for the separation of Kashmir from India.
The event in question saw speeches from notable figures such as the late Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, SAR Geelani, and Varavara Rao, among others. The complainant, Sushil Pandit, an activist from Kashmir, filed a complaint under Section 156(3) of CrPC, leading to the registration of an FIR and subsequent investigation.
The core allegations revolve around assertions made during the event, claiming that Kashmir was never part of India and calling for efforts towards its independence. Recordings of these speeches were provided as evidence by the complainant, prompting legal action against the individuals involved.
This move has sparked discussions about freedom of speech and expression, with supporters of Roy and Hussain questioning the basis for the prosecution. On the other hand, those in favor of the legal action argue that such speeches could incite unrest and pose a threat to national security.
Sources By Agencies
