New Delhi: The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union organized a “Freedom March” demanding the release of anti-CAA activists imprisoned for more than five years under UAPA. The march began at Ganga Dhaba and ended at Sabarmati Dhaba, coinciding with the day Umar Khalid was arrested in 2020.
The gathering included families of jailed activists. Among them was little Sara, daughter of Tasleem Ahmed, who spoke about missing her father. Her presence highlighted the deep personal cost of prolonged incarceration. Families of Gulfisha Fatima, Shadab Ahmed, and others also joined, sharing their grief and frustration over repeated bail rejections.
Relatives accused the government of targeting Muslims under “black laws” like UAPA. They argued that charges remain unproven despite years of imprisonment. Activists’ families described missed milestones, financial hardships, and emotional suffering. Many pointed out the unequal treatment of Muslim detainees compared to political leaders who secured bail swiftly.
Student leaders emphasized that the struggle is not only about individual cases but about defending constitutional values. JNUSU president Nitesh said the judiciary’s handling of these cases reflects political influence. He stated that the march aimed to affirm solidarity and renew the commitment to resist discriminatory laws.
Afreen Fatima of the Fraternity Movement read a message from Sharjeel Imam’s brother, describing prison conditions and the pain endured by families. She urged students and citizens to sustain the movement, calling it a fight for justice and equality.
The protest ended with chants for freedom and pledges to continue until the activists are released.
