ActionAid India is concerned over the arrest of activists and public intellectuals, and seeks protection for all human rights defenders

ActionAid India is deeply concerned over the arrests of, and raids on the homes of human rights defenders, activists and public intellectuals across the country, held in the early hours of 28th August 2018.

The activists arrested, and those whose homes were raided, have been standing for justice for marginalized, deprived and excluded communities. The strong body of human rights work of these activists spanning over decades is very much in the public domain and well-known; their opinions and writings are well-documented.

While the Supreme Court has taken cognizance, we are concerned about the space for dissent in our country, as it is essential for building the fabric of a democratic society and state.

We demand the immediate release of arrested individuals, and dropping of all false charges against them.

“We expect Governments to take steps to ensure that human rights defenders are able to continue their work in an uninterrupted and fearless manner. It is with sacrifices of countless such people that nations are built and progress,” said Sandeep Chachra, Executive Director, ActionAid India