CPI seeks release of ‘political prisoners’ languishing in jails for years

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CPI Andhra Pradesh secretary G. Eswaraiah has urged Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to order a review of cases involving persons who have been in prolonged judicial custody in various prisons in the State on charges arising from political and public movements, and take steps to release those eligible under law.

In a letter to the Chief Minister, Mr. Eswaraiah said several persons arrested while campaigning on political, social and public issues had been in prison for years. He said though the Constitution did not recognise a separate legal status called “political prisoner,” the government should consider issues concerning such detainees in the light of justice, human rights and constitutional values.

He said Dalits, Adivasis, members of people's organisations, democratic activists and social activists were among those facing cases under stringent laws, and alleged that some had been in custody for prolonged periods while their trials continued.

Mr. Eswaraiah said difficulties in securing bail under stringent laws, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, could make prolonged pre-trial detention a serious concern when trials were delayed. He called for special consideration of cases involving elderly persons, those suffering from illnesses, women and prisoners who had been facing trial for long periods.

The CPI leader urged the government to identify cases in which there had been avoidable delays and expedite the proceedings. He also sought free legal aid for those requiring it and special humanitarian consideration in appropriate cases.

Mr. Eswaraiah also urged the government to ensure that prisoners had effective access to family members, medical facilities, lawyers and legal aid. He requested the Chief Minister to intervene and initiate measures for the release of eligible long-term prisoners. Copies of the representation were sent to Home Minister V. Anitha and Director-General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta.

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