Opposition warns of State-wide stir if govt. fails to withdraw UAPA case against YouTuber Ravan by July 17
A coalition of opposition parties and civil rights activists has demanded the withdrawal of UAPA charges against YouTuber Ravan by July 17, threatening state-wide protests. Critics argue the government is misusing anti-terror laws to suppress dissent and target political critics.
Why it matters
The case raises significant concerns regarding the application of anti-terror legislation against individuals and the protection of free speech in India.
A coalition of opposition parties, civil rights activists, retired bureaucrats, and journalists on Friday sought the immediate withdrawal of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) case against YouTuber Ravan, alleging that the government was misusing anti-terror legislation to suppress dissent.
The demand was made at a roundtable organised by the CPI here under the chairmanship of its State secretary G. Eswaraiah. Participants gave the government time until July 17 to withdraw the UAPA case, warning that they would launch a State-wide agitation if no action was taken.
Leaders from the CPI, CPI(M), YSRCP, Congress, AAP, CPI(ML) groups, journalist bodies and civil society organisations adopted a resolution seeking the withdrawal of UAPA and sedition charges against the YouTuber. They alleged that the government was targeting critics and repeatedly arresting the YouTuber despite his securing bail in several cases.
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