6th Jun 2023 11:06:PM State
Eastern Sentinel Arunachal News

ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, Jun 6: The Arunachal Law Students Union (ALSU) has called for the repeal of the Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (APUAPA) 2014, describing it as a 'draconian' law that poses a threat to the people of the state. ALSU has urged the state government to prioritize the matter and present it in the upcoming state assembly session.
During a press conference held at the press club on Tuesday, Gyamar Maya, Chairman of the APUAPA Issue Committee, emphasized that the Act's definition of 'unlawful activity' is ambiguous and exhaustive, providing ample room for misuse by state authorities to stifle public voices. He pointed out that, apart from a few sections, the majority of the Act is a direct replication of the National Security Act (NSA) of 1980, adding "the APUAPA has no relevance to national security."
Maya highlighted recent instances of the Act's misuse during the 72-hour ICR (Itanagar Capital Region) bandh, where members of the public were arbitrarily detained and later arrested. He also mentioned a case involving the detention of a juvenile for 16 days under the Act, underscoring the potential threat it poses to the public.
"The state is not dealing with any anti-national activities, yet the entire provisions of the Act are copied from the NSA. The provisions under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Indian Penal Code (IPC), and other central legislations related to unlawful activities are sufficient to address any emergencies if they arise," added Maya.
To advocate for the repeal of APUAPA, the union called for public support, urging individuals to write representations to their respective legislators and the Chief Minister, demanding immediate repeal of the Act. ALSU also announced plans to organize a mass gathering to raise awareness among the public about the Act's future implications.
Moreover, if the state government fails to address the issue during the Assembly Session after receiving public representation, ALSU stated that they would initiate the second phase of their democratic movement in the state.
"We do not endorse bandh calls and will not resort to such measures. Instead, we will organize awareness programs to ensure that the entire population of the state is aware of this draconian Act and raise their voices against it," stated Maya, while urging the public to join the cause and peacefully demand the repeal of the Act.


Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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