UAPA Charges Trigger Political and Legal Debate in Andhra Pradesh
Nellore Central Jail
The arrest of Vachalakuri Joseph, popularly known by the YouTube channel name “Prashna Ravana” in the state of Andhra Pradesh, has created much controversy.
Provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act have been used to book him in the police station.
As a consequence, there were questions raised regarding the move of the government from the opposition and human rights activists.
Controversies started due to some comments made by Ravana.
It was reported that he had targeted Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and his family members during a meeting in Eluru.
Afterwards, videos of his comments became viral on social media.
As a result, police booked many cases against him in different districts.
He was arrested in Hyderabad on June 30.
The court at Kakinada ordered bail for him on July 1.
But he kept being arrested through transit warrants by the police five times in five days.
Additionally, the Gannavaram Police filed another case against him under the UAPA.
So, the legal battle got toughened.
A local court ordered him judicial custody for 14 days on July 6.
Afterwards, he was taken to Nellore Central Jail.
The FIR stated that Ravana propagated the proscribed organization CPI (Maoist) through his YouTube channel.
It was charged against him that he had glorified Maoist leader Hidma.
Moreover, police charged him with disseminating extremism.
In addition, police claimed that his videos incited people towards committing criminal offenses.
Now, the police have approached the court in order to get custody questioning of Ravana.
But, the lawyer of Ravana has raised objection against the allegations against him.
He contended that authorities were misusing terrorism laws against him.
According to him, the entire case is related to the misuse of social media posts.
On the other hand, the YSR Congress Party has decided to extend legal help to the family of Ravana.
Even the actor Prakash Raj raised objection regarding the move of the government.
He suggested to the government to respect democratic ideals.
But, the Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has come forward in favor of legal action.
He contended that democracy ensures criticism but not the insult to women and children.
Nellore Central Jail
