Khalid Saifi, a dedicated human rights activist, has spent five long years incarcerated under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Recently, on March 27, he was granted a fleeting parole, allowing him a heartwarming reunion with his family to break their Ramadan fast together at home.
Co-founder of United Against Hate, Saifi was arrested in March 2020 amidst the tumultuous Delhi pogrom case. His legal team argues vehemently that his detainment lacks substantial evidence and highlights the unjust nature of the accusations framed against him.
Upon arriving home around 3 PM, he was met with a shower of rose petals from his family, relishing a touch of normalcy after years apart. An especially poignant moment unfolded when he was reunited with his elderly mother, whose tears flowed as she voiced her fears about losing him.
With a heavy heart, she remarked, “When will you come back? I can’t even visit you. Will I be gone before you return?” Reflectively, Saifi trimmed her uncut nails, a tender act recalling times before his imprisonment. His daughter was also present to share in this emotional iftar.
As Saifi returned to prison by 9 PM, he maintained hope through a bail petition filed in the Delhi High Court. His lawyer, Rebecca John, argued there was no convincing evidence linking him to the violent events of February 2020 nor any valid reason for invoking the stringent UAPA.
John highlighted that Saifi’s right to a speedy trial should be upheld, especially when other co-accused have already received bail. She emphasized the absence of any incriminating items from Saifi during peaceful protests and insisted on solid proof of any alleged terrorist activities, asserting, “The prosecution has no solid proof that Khalid Saifi engaged in any terrorist activity or conspiracy.”
Khalid Saifi, a human rights activist held under UAPA for five years, was granted a short parole to celebrate iftar with his family. His legal team maintains he has been wrongfully detained without concrete evidence. During his brief visit, emotional reunions unfolded, particularly with his elderly mother. Saifi’s lawyer argues that there is no evidence of his involvement in terrorist activities, pressing for a fair trial.
Khalid Saifi’s brief return home encapsulates the emotional toll of prolonged wrongful detention, underscoring the persistent struggle for human rights within the existing legal frameworks. As he awaits developments on his bail petition, the questions of justice and accountability echo loudly. The steadfast support of his family during these trying times illustrates the profound personal impact of his activism and ordeal.
Original Source: maktoobmedia.com
