Former Delhi University professor GN Saibaba was released from Nagpur Central Jail on Thursday following his acquittal by Bombay High Court in Maoist links case
Saibaba's release marked the culmination of a prolonged legal battle that began with his arrest in 2014 and subsequent conviction by a sessions court in Gadchiroli district in 2017, which was later overturned by the Bombay High Court.
Saibaba, who has been wheelchair-bound due to deteriorating health, expressed his need for immediate medical attention upon release before speaking to media.
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday acquitted Saibaba and five others saying that prosecution failed to substantiate the charges against ex-DU professor beyond reasonable doubt.
This led to the annulment of Saibaba's life sentence and highlighted procedural lapses in invoking the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The court reprimanded the state authority for granting penalties under the UAPA without conducting adequate scrutiny. The court also declared the sanction to be "null and void" and emphasised the need for a thorough assessment prior to applying such strict regulations.
The High Court observed that the seizure of pamphlets and electronic data merely establishes the accused as sympathisers of the Maoist ideology rather than active operatives
Meanwhile, Saibaba's release was met with relief and gratitude from his family members, who have been advocating for justice and his freedom throughout the legal ordeal.
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