Delhi LG Grants Sanction to Prosecute Arundhati Roy Under UAPA: A Controversial Move

The Delhi Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has granted sanction to prosecute renowned author and activist Arundhati Roy under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This decision has sparked widespread criticism and raised serious concerns about the freedom of expression in India.

The sanction comes in relation to a speech Roy delivered at an event in 2021, where she allegedly made comments deemed seditious by the government. The UAPA, often criticized for its overbroad provisions and potential for misuse, empowers authorities to prosecute individuals for activities perceived as threatening national security.

Keywords:

Arundhati Roy
Delhi LG
Vinai Kumar Saxena
UAPA
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act
Sedition
Freedom of Expression
Overbroad Provisions
Misuse

The move has been condemned by several human rights organizations and prominent figures who view it as an attempt to silence dissent and intimidate critics of the government. They argue that Roy’s speech, however controversial, does not warrant prosecution under the UAPA, which should be reserved for genuine threats to national security.

The decision has also reignited the ongoing debate about the scope and application of the UAPA, with many calling for its reconsideration and reforms. Critics argue that the law’s vague definitions and broad powers are often used to target individuals with dissenting views, creating a chilling effect on free speech and democratic discourse.

The case against Arundhati Roy is expected to be a landmark case that will have significant implications for freedom of expression in India. It remains to be seen how the courts will interpret the UAPA provisions and whether Roy’s speech will be deemed a genuine threat to national security.