'Release political prisoners': Convention held in Punjab against alleged killings in adivasi areas

By Harsh Thakor*

The Democratic Front Against Operation Green Hunt (Punjab) organised a state-level convention and protest in Jalandhar on December 7, calling attention to killings in Adivasi regions and demanding the release of political prisoners, including those who have completed their sentences but remain in jail.

The convention, held ahead of International Human Rights Day, took place at Desh Bhagat Yadgar Hall under the chairpersonship of the Front’s conveners Dr. Parminder Singh, Prof. A.K. Maleri, Yashpal, and Boota Singh Mahimoodpur. Participants included farmers, workers, youth, students, women, rationalist groups, democratic rights organisations, writers, cultural activists, and theatre practitioners from across Punjab.

Speakers discussed what they described as increasing constraints on democratic and human rights in the country. Activist Nadeem Khan, senior journalist Prashant Rahi, activist Asif Iqbal Tanha, and democratic rights advocate Dr. Navsharan criticised arrests, long-term incarceration, and what they alleged were fabricated criminal cases. They also expressed concern over public statements by the union Home Minister urging insurgents to surrender, viewing them as indicative of a growing security-centric approach.

Speakers alleged that large-scale paramilitary operations in Bastar and other Adivasi regions were linked to facilitating corporate access to land, forests, water, and mineral resources. They cited the use of drones and helicopters in security operations and warned that similar tactics could affect people’s movements in other states. Cases involving Advocate Surendra Gadling, artists associated with Kabir Kala Manch, and activists including Umar Khalid and Gulfisha Fatima were mentioned as examples of prolonged detentions under stringent laws.

Participants also highlighted delays in the justice system, stating that many prisoners who have completed their sentences continue to remain incarcerated. They called for broad-based democratic mobilisation to secure their release.

Resolutions Adopted

Resolutions presented by Jaswinder Phagwara were adopted by a show of hands. The demands included: halting military and paramilitary operations in Adivasi areas; ending alleged fake encounters; removal of police camps; withdrawal of security forces and aerial operations involving drones and helicopters; protection of natural resources; repeal of laws such as UAPA and AFSPA; dissolution of the National Investigation Agency; release of individuals jailed in cases described as fabricated, including those related to the Delhi violence and Bhima Koregaon; release of detainees held without trial; reversal of privatisation measures; reinstatement of suspended roadways employees; and protection of the right to organise and protest.

Revolutionary singers Gurmeet Juj and Dharminder Masani performed at the event. Refreshments were provided by the Punjab Khet Mazdoor Union. Speakers were honoured with books and an emblem commemorating Ghadri Gulab Kaur. Concluding the protest outside Desh Bhagat Yadgar Hall, Dr. Parminder Singh thanked all participating organisations and supporters on behalf of the Front’s conveners and state committee.

The event ended with a rally.

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*Freelance journalist

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