His continued detention would amount to violation of his fundamental right under Article 21: SC directs release of Manipur-based political activist detained under NSA

A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah on Monday directed release of Leichombam Erendro, a Manipur-based political activist, arrested for sedition under the National Security Act by 5 pm, stating that he cannot kept behind bars even for a night as his continued detention would amount to violation of his fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

Also Read: The sedition law is a colonial law. Do we still need the law in our country after 75 years of Independence?: Supreme Court

His arrest was a result of his criticism of BJP leaders on use of cow dung and cow urine as cures for Covid-19. The activist, along with journalist Kishorechandra Wangkhem, were arrested for posting the comment over the death of the then Manipur BJP President Saikhom Tikendra Singh.

It was contended by the petitioner (Father of Leichombam Erendro) that the activist had only criticised BJP leaders purportedly advocating cow dung and cow urine as cures for Covid-19 and the preventive detention of the political activist under the NSA, has been done solely to punish him for his criticism of BJP leaders.

“The statement was made in the context of the death of the then Manipur BJP President due to Covid-19, as a criticism of the unscientific position taken and misinformation being spread by several BJP leaders regarding cow urine and cow dung being effective in preventing/treating Covid-19,” the plea said.

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