Throttling free expression by misusing law
It is shocking to hear about the detention of a journalist in Manipur
under the stringent National Security Act for a social media post. This is misuse
of power. This is violation of his rights as a citizen. This is utter disregard
for constitutional provisions that uphold individual liberty.
The Facebook post of Kishorechand Wangkhem was in its criticism of the
Manipur Chief Minister and his party. He called the Chief Minister a “puppet”. Nothing wrong. So a magistrate
granted him bail. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh could not tolerate the
journalist being set free, he was arrested again a couple of days later and
detained under the NSA, which provides for detention for a year without bail.
Remember that The NSA can be used only against those advocating armed
insurrection or violent disaffection. This
journalist posed no threat to public order or security.
The NSA advisory board consists of three members who are, or have been,
or are qualified to be high court judges. There are protests and the outrage
against the incarceration of Mr. Wangkhem. This is clear throttling of free
expression by misusing the law.
Can someone file appeal in court against such detention order?
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