New Delhi: The Praveen Amanullah Memorial Lecture, held in memory of the late bureaucrat and activist known for his integrity and public service, brought together legal experts, academics, and rights activists to discuss the growing threats to India’s constitutional framework.
Organized by the Centre for Equity Studies and Jan Manch, the event focused on the shrinking space for dissent, the misuse of laws, and the marginalization of minorities. Delivering the keynote address, former Patna High Court judge Justice Anjana Prakash said the Constitution is facing grave danger from majoritarian politics and executive overreach. She pointed to the misuse of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and sedition law to silence critics and target vulnerable communities, particularly Muslims and Dalits.
Speakers raised concern over the weakening of judicial independence and the failure of institutions to act as checks on state power. They also highlighted curbs on free speech, media freedom, and the right to protest, describing them as symptoms of a deeper democratic decline.
Civil society representatives and lawyers shared real-life cases of discrimination and arbitrary arrests under restrictive laws. They urged collective efforts to defend constitutional values and protect minority rights.
The lecture also paid tribute to Praveen Amanullah’s legacy of transparency, ethical governance, and civic responsibility. His widow, Afreen Amanullah, spoke about continuing his work through sustained public engagement.
