European Parliament while taking a dig at the Modi Government slams the Union Home Minister Amit Shah; for the systematic violation of human rights and misuse of anti-terror laws like UAPA. Maria Arena, Head of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights wrote to Amit Shah on May 28, 2020. In her letter, she expressed her concerns over the arrest of activists Gautam Navlakha and Anand Teltumbde by the National Investigative Agency. The letter read, “It is particularly alarming to note that human rights defenders cannot conduct advocacy activities, notably in favour of India’s poorest and most marginalized communities”. Furthermore, she criticized the Modi Government for portraying peaceful anti-CAA protesters as terrorists.
Notably, many legitimate peaceful protests against laws, policies, and government actions; including Anti-CAA protests were portrayed as terrorist activities. In effect, a large number of protestors stand behind the bars under the umbrella of such laws. It is alarming to note the arbitrary use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). This clearly violates the International Human Rights Standards. Moreover, Head of the European Parliament contended, “India should do much more to ensure a safe and conducive environment for civil society working in the country also”. In these testing times, it is important to engage all strengths and means to fight together; to avoid this becoming a risk to human rights. Lastly, the European Sub-committee looks forward to furthering progress on the protection of human rights in India.
