New Delhi, October 10 (Daily Kiran) : Senior Rajya Sabha member Kapil Sibal has sharply criticized the central government for invoking Section 163 of the Delhi Police Act in response to a planned protest at Jantar Mantar. Speaking in New Delhi, he questioned the necessity of such measures, stating that no segment of society had raised any complaints that would warrant such actions.
Sibal pointed out that the imposition of Section 144 or Section 163 is typically justified to prevent disturbances to public order. “These measures are meant to avert situations that threaten public safety,” he noted. However, he questioned the government’s rationale, asking, “If a group intends to protest peacefully, who exactly is at risk?”
He emphasized that the announcement of the protest had been made well in advance, leaving him perplexed as to why the government perceived a threat. “It appears that it is the government that feels endangered, not society,” he remarked, suggesting that such laws should not be used to stifle peaceful assembly.
Sibal further criticized the arbitrary arrests of protesters, questioning the legal basis for detaining individuals under Sections 144 or 163 without clear communication about their whereabouts. He expressed concern over the treatment of detainees, alleging that they were being subjected to brutal treatment in undisclosed locations.
“The government seems to believe that a gathering of people from across the country poses a significant threat,” he added. Sibal warned that this approach could undermine public trust and respect for the law.
He concluded by questioning the need for extensive police presence and the harsh measures being employed. “It is alarming that peaceful protesters are met with such violence,” he stated, urging the government to reconsider its stance.
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