Jaipur: The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Dr. GN Saibaba, describing his death as a profound loss to the academic and human rights community. In a statement, the organization demanded that Delhi University provide all pending benefits to Dr. Saibaba’s wife, Vasantha, which were denied due to the non-restoration of his employment.
Dr. Saibaba passed away due to post-operative complications following gall bladder surgery, a tragic end to his life, just months after his release from a nearly decade-long imprisonment. PUCL emphasized that his deteriorating health, compounded by the neglect he suffered in jail, ultimately led to his demise. His imprisonment, during which he was denied proper medical care despite being 90% disabled, significantly worsened his condition, preventing him from enjoying the freedom he had fought so hard to regain.
The PUCL underscored the broader implications of Saibaba’s death, drawing attention to the denial of healthcare in prisons as a violation of fundamental human rights, guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. They highlighted similar cases, such as Father Stan Swamy’s death in 2021 due to inadequate medical attention and death of Pandu Narote, a co-accused in Saibaba’s case, in 2022 due to neglect of a simple fever while in custody.
The PUCL questioned the state’s approach toward vulnerable individuals like Dr. Saibaba, emphasizing the systematic denial of bail, even for those suffering from severe disabilities and life-threatening health conditions. They criticized the use of UAPA to incarcerate individuals like Saibaba, whose only crime was his unwavering commitment to human rights, which the state often equates with anti-national activity.
Despite these challenges, Saibaba remained resilient, continuing to write letters and poems, documenting his experience as a disabled person in prison and advocating for the rights of his fellow inmates. His release in March 2024, following a dismissal of charges by the Bombay High Court, came too late to reverse the damage caused by years of neglect.
The PUCL expressed solidarity with Dr. Saibaba’s family, particularly his wife Vasantha and their daughter, who stood by him throughout his legal battles. The organization called on Delhi University to restore Dr. Saibaba’s position posthumously and provide all due benefits to his family. They further reiterated their commitment to continue his fight for justice, particularly by advocating for the repeal of the UAPA, which they argue has been misused to silence dissent.
