Punjab groups challenge sanction to prosecute Arundhati Roy, Sheikh Showkat Hussain

More than three dozen mass and democratic organizations convened in Jalandhar today to voice their opposition to the recently implemented criminal codes and the decision by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi to prosecute prominent public figures Arundhati Roy and Professor Sheikh Showkat Hussain under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The convention, held at a local venue, featured speeches from several notable figures, including veteran journalist Bhasha Singh, who delivered an address highlighting the dangers of the current political climate. Singh emphasized that the present government while appearing strong, is actually using its power to suppress dissent and intimidate voices of resistance.

“We must not harbour any illusion about the present government being weak,” Singh asserted. “It will be in an offensive mode more than what it was in its earlier avatar. Arundhati Roy symbolizes how to struggle, write, speak, and smile in difficult times. The powers that be fear only this smile and the people’s struggles.”

Singh further criticized the government’s attempt to criminalize Roy’s activism, describing it as a desperate move by a regime terrified of public dissent. He called on the opposition to raise their voices against such injustices to ensure that the people remain vigilant and engaged.

The convention was also addressed by Professor Jagmohan Singh, President of the Association for Democratic Rights, and Rajinder Bhadaur, Organizing Secretary of the Rationalist Society, along with advocates N.K. Jeet and Daljeet Singh.

Professor Jagmohan Singh challenged the central government’s claims that the new criminal codes represent a departure from colonial-era laws. Instead, he argued that these codes echo the repressive spirit of the Rowlatt Act, suggesting that the intent behind them is to establish a police state.