Renowned activist and journalist Teesta Setalvad examines the proposed Gujarat Protection of Internal Security Act.

The provisions of the act are draconian on several counts; they negate the fundamental rights of citizens and go against the grain and spirit of the Constitution of India! The proposals include that:

-The Government can take action against caste groups, communities promoting ‘sectarian interests’

-All offences under the new law will be non-bailable.

-People can be arrested merely on suspicion of being a ‘threat to internal security.’

-No legal proceedings against security agencies can be initiated for action taken ‘in ‘good faith.’

-Both public and private establishments can be put under electronic surveillance

-The Government can create security zones with special policing powers.

In short, the proposed legislation literally suspends all civil rights and gives the police unbridled powers to arrest anyone ‘on suspicion’.