The Congress party has leveled accusations against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, claiming that it intends to make the sedition law more stringent, thereby curbing dissent and silencing opposition leaders. The allegations come in the wake of the Law Commission's support for retaining the sedition law, citing potential risks to the security and integrity of the nation if it were repealed.
Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi held a press conference at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters, where he condemned the BJP's alleged misuse of the sedition law as a means to subvert and silence opposing voices. Singhvi raised concerns over the government's failure to abolish the law, despite the Supreme Court declaring it inoperative and expressing strong reservations regarding its application.
Singhvi criticized the sedition law as a relic of the colonial era, asserting that it fosters a mindset that keeps rulers detached from the ruled and undermines the foundations of the republic. He further claimed that the BJP government's support for strengthening the law sends a message ahead of the upcoming general elections that it will be selectively utilized against opposition leaders.
The Law Commission's recent report on the "Usage of the Law of Sedition" recommended enhancing the punishment for sedition cases, proposing an increase in the minimum jail term from three years to seven years. The commission argued that this revision would provide courts with greater flexibility to impose appropriate sentences based on the severity of the offense committed.
Singhvi labeled the proposed changes as draconian, invasive, and prejudicial, accusing the BJP government of planning to become more oppressive than the colonial regime. He highlighted the contradiction between the law commission's recommendations and the Supreme Court's intent to render sedition laws inoperative and eventually repeal them.
The Congress spokesperson also presented alarming statistics, claiming a significant rise in sedition cases since 2014, with an average annual increase of 28% compared to the preceding period. Singhvi highlighted instances where sedition charges were filed against individuals expressing concerns over issues such as lack of medical resources during the pandemic and government policies on citizenship and farm laws. He questioned the government's selective application of the sedition law, particularly targeting journalists, opposition leaders, and dissidents.
Singhvi concluded by urging the government to shed its colonial mindset and embrace a more progressive approach that respects freedom of expression and dissent. He called for a transparent examination of the government's motives behind retaining and strengthening the sedition law, emphasizing the need to safeguard democratic values and uphold citizens' rights.
(With PTI Inputs)
