HRLN condemns
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 26 2018: The Human Rights Law Network (HRLN) New Delhi has strongly condemned the arrest of Kishorchandra Wangkhem under NSA for using vulgar and offensive words against the BJP Government and the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister.

A press release issued by the communication officer of HRLN today informed that the annual general body meeting of the network was held at Rajasthan from December 19 to 23, and it was attended by many lawyers and activists associated with HRLN from nearly 25 States and many social organizations of Rajasthan.

It continued that the meeting discussed various issues of human rights violations in many parts of India and in one session, the arrest of Kishorchandra Wangkhem under NSA for using the 'F word, by the State Government was also discussed.

Pointing out that Kishorchandra was arrested for his Facebook post criticizing the State Government for organizing the birth anniversary of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, the founder of HRLN and senior advocate, Dr Colin Gonsalves said that there has never been a case like this one before.

He explained that the "F" word used in swearing is a part of the freedom of speech and expression.

He further explained that it is lawfully used and is justifiably used as well, it informed adding that as per the founder, the attempt of the State Government to arrest such a person is totally wrong.

Dr Colin further reasoned that not only should Kishorchandra be able to get bail but the prosecution should be quashed as well.

The use of swear words is totally permissible under the Constitution of India.

It is a part of the freedom of speech and expression, Dr Colin explained urging every journalist and human rights activist to stand up and support Kishorchandra against the tyrannical use of law against him, it added.

To say that Rani Jhansi has nothing to do with Manipur is absolutely protected by the freedom of speech and expression, Dr Colin explained adding that Kishorchandra may be right or wrong, but there is nobody in this country, who can prosecute a journalist or anybody for that matter on the basis of the statement; which seems to be an offence for a very conserva- tive and right wing section of the society.

HRLN stands fully with Kishorchandra, it added.

It further explained that regarding the case of Kishorchandra, Shreeji Vhavsar, senior advocate of the Supreme Court, associated with HRLN, had gone to Imphal to meet Ranjita Wankhem, the wife of Kishorchandra, and went to Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa to meet him on December 20 .

Even after 3 hours of waiting, the jail officials didn't allow the advocate to meet his client, it claimed.

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