India frees disabled academic jailed for Maoist links

In a landmark decision, the Indian government has freed disabled academic G.N. Saibaba, who was jailed for alleged links to Maoist rebels. Saibaba, who is wheelchair-bound and suffers from multiple health issues, was serving a life sentence for his alleged involvement with the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist).

Saibaba was arrested in 2014 and was convicted in 2017 under India’s draconian Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). His case had drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups and activists, who argued that he was being persecuted for his political beliefs.

After years of campaigning for his release, Saibaba was granted bail on medical grounds in February 2022. The decision to release him has been hailed as a victory for justice and human rights in India.

Saibaba’s case has also highlighted the plight of thousands of other political prisoners in India who are languishing in jails under draconian laws like the UAPA. His release is seen as a glimmer of hope for those who continue to be unjustly detained for their dissenting views.