It is appalling that the human rights organisation, Amnesty International, has been charged with sedition by the Bengaluru police (“‘Action against Amnesty only if sedition charge is proved’,” Aug.17). It is sad that an event which was intended to denounce atrocities faced by Kashmiris was equated with anti-nationalism. However, the organisation could have been a bit more vigilant and pragmatic in admitting the participants. Intolerance to such discussions will only lead to larger questions about the need for plurality in thoughts and the freedom of expression. If Kashmiris really want to have freedom, our politicians must be bold enough to have a debate on it.
Paul Jom,
Palakkad
The sedition case under the notorious Section 124-A of the IPC seems to yet another onslaught against NGOs functioning in India. The introduction of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act angle is reminiscent of the Union government’s tirade against Greenpeace India and the NGO, “Lawyers Collective”. Ever since the government came to power, civil society seems to have been placed under siege. The suppression of civil society is a blot on a vibrant democracy like India’s.
Brinda Singh,
New Delhi
The so-called warriors of human rights should first highlight the plight of the families of security personnel who die every day while safeguarding the country against terrorists and infiltrators. A seminar of this nature gives cover to secessionist groups to ignite more hatred against India’s effort to quell terrorists and their atrocities. Has the organisation in the news ever held a seminar on the plight of families of sarpanches of J&K who were killed for taking part in the democratic process? When Burhan Wani was killed, why should the security forces be criticised? Instigating youth to indulge in stone-throwing is an act of sedition and equal to waging a war against the country. The government should screen the agenda of such seminars and provide conditional permission to Amnesty International to function in India.
Raghothaman S.,
Chennai
