– Condemnation of BJP govt’s attack on freedom of expression
Morigaon (Assam), 24 April (HS): Demonstrating unwavering commitment and solidarity towards democratic values, a team of senior leaders of the Indian National Congress reached Marigaon jail on Thursday. They met Assam Pradesh Congress Committee state spokesperson Reetam Singh. The Congress alleged that the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led BJP government in Assam has unfairly jailed Reetam Singh for exercising freedom of expression.
The Congress delegation included Indian National Congress national spokesperson and head of the media coordination team for Assam assembly elections Charan Singh Sapra, AICC national spokesperson Nighat Abbas and Harshad Sharma. The team met Reetam Singh and assured him and his family of full legal and moral support from the Congress party.
The Congress alleged that Reetam Singh was earlier arrested and sent to jail in Lakhimpur due to a tweet. Though he was granted bail in that case, the Assam government, indulging in vindictive politics, lodged another false case in Morigaon and sent him back to jail. This development highlights the intolerant and vindictive attitude of the government.
The Congress termed it as a brazen attempt by the BJP government to crush democratic voices. The Congress party made it clear that it will stand firmly against such authoritarian attacks.
The AICC team assured Reetam Singh that his courage in raising his voice in favour of truth will not be forgotten. The team also informed that the matter is being immediately taken up with the senior leadership of the Congress and will be dealt with fully through legal means.
Charan Singh Sapra said, No Congress worker will be spared or silenced for standing up against injustice. If the BJP thinks that it can intimidate the Congress family with vindictive politics, it is making a grave mistake.
The national team has directed the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee to maintain regular contact with Ritam Singh and his family and ensure all legal, emotional and necessary support to them.
The Indian National Congress reiterates that it has unwavering faith in democratic principles, civil liberties and the constitutional right to freedom of expression. Arresting a young political voice for criticism is not just an attack on the Congress Party but a direct blow to the democracy of India.—————
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
