The harassment of social activists in India continues unabated, with the latest development involving the sanctioning of prosecution against renowned writer and social activist Arundhati Roy under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This move, authorized by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, is a troubling reflection of the increasingly repressive environment for dissenting voices in the country.

The FIR against Roy and another individual, Sheikh Showkat Hussain, was filed following an order from the Court of Metropolitan Magistrate, New Delhi. The charges stem from their alleged participation in a conference titled “Azadi — The Only Way” held in 2010 at the LTG Auditorium on Copernicus Marg, New Delhi. At this conference, the speakers reportedly made provocative speeches that advocated for the separation of Kashmir from India, a highly contentious issue that has long been a flashpoint in Indian politics.

This case highlights several critical issues concerning freedom of speech and the treatment of activists in India. Firstly, it underscores the misuse of draconian laws like the UAPA to stifle dissent. The UAPA, originally intended to combat terrorism, has increasingly been used to target activists, journalists, and intellectuals whose views diverge from the official narrative. The application of such severe legislation to prosecute a writer and academic for their speech at a public conference raises serious questions about the commitment of Indian authorities to uphold democratic principles and human rights.

Arundhati Roy, an internationally acclaimed author and outspoken critic of the Indian government’s policies, has faced numerous legal challenges and public attacks for her views, particularly regarding Kashmir. Her participation in the “Azadi — The Only Way” conference is part of her broader engagement with the Kashmir issue, where she has consistently advocated for the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir. While her stance is controversial and has attracted significant opposition, the use of UAPA against her is disproportionate and suggests a deliberate attempt to silence her voice.

The charges against Roy and Hussain also bring to light the broader context of shrinking space for civil society in India. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the harassment, intimidation, and arrest of activists, journalists, and scholars. Many have been accused of sedition or terrorism-related charges, often based on flimsy evidence or for merely expressing dissenting opinions. This pattern indicates a worrying trend towards authoritarianism, where dissent is not tolerated, and critical voices are systematically suppressed.

Additionally, the timing of the FIR and the subsequent prosecution raises questions about the motives behind these actions. The conference in question took place in 2010, and the FIR was filed many years later. This delay suggests that the charges may be politically motivated, aiming to discredit and neutralize critics of the government. It also reflects a broader strategy of using legal harassment as a tool to deter other activists and intellectuals from speaking out.

The issue of Kashmir remains a highly sensitive and polarizing subject in India. The region has experienced decades of conflict, violence, and political turmoil. While the Indian government maintains that Kashmir is an integral part of India, many Kashmiris and some Indian activists argue for greater autonomy or independence for the region. The government’s response to these calls has often been heavy-handed, involving military action, curfews, and restrictions on civil liberties. The prosecution of Roy and Hussain can be seen as part of this broader strategy to control the narrative on Kashmir and silence those who challenge the official stance.

It is imperative for the Indian government to recognize that true democracy thrives on diverse opinions and robust debate. The use of draconian laws to stifle dissent only serves to undermine the democratic fabric of the nation. Instead of prosecuting activists like Arundhati Roy and Sheikh Showkat Hussain, the government should engage in constructive dialogue with all stakeholders, including those with differing views on contentious issues like Kashmir.