Arrest of the alleged IM suspects : The police should act responsibly during the election times.

26 March 2014

Press Release

The Socialist Party expresses its deep concern about the manner in which the police authorities are creating an atmosphere of fear and distrust among the citizens of a certain community regarding the arrests of the alleged operatives of Indian Mujahideen in Jaipur on 23 March 2014. In this connection, two young men were arrested by the police in Okhla, Delhi, leading to a spontaneous protest by the residents of that area. The arrested youth were released later following the protest but the action of the police has spread a deep sense of insecurity and anguish among the residents.

The police, in its press conference and statements, has presented the arrested persons as if they have been proved guilty already simply because they had been arrested.  It seems that the police, by declaring the names of the alleged suspects in the press conference and narrating stories about their unlawful activities, have not kept in mind that it is also the time for the Lok Sabha elections. The Delhi Police Special Cell should not have mentioned in public that the suspected terrorists were reportedly planning to attack BJP’s PM candidate Narendra Modi. The police should have dealt with this alleged threat in a discreet manner.

Such acts of the police could create communal feelings. The Election Commission of India should direct the police authorities, including the National Investigating Agency (NIA) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), not to make ‘revelations’ which could flare up communal passions during the election times. The provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 applied to the political parties, leaders and candidates must be applicable to the governmental authorities/agencies as well.

The Socialist Party further appeals to the present government to ensure a free and fair atmosphere among the public so that more than 80 crore voters all over India can cast their vote with dignity and responsibility.

Dr. Prem Singh

General Secretary/Spokesperson

Mob. : 9873276726