GN Saibaba and Five Others Acquitted of Maoist Links by Bombay High Court
The court's decision overturns previous life sentences, marking a significant turn in a case that has drawn international scrutiny and criticism.
- The Bombay High Court acquitted former Delhi University professor GN Saibaba and five others of alleged Maoist links, overturning their life sentences.
- Saibaba, a paraplegic who uses a wheelchair, was first arrested in 2014 and convicted in 2017 for waging an insurgency against the state.
- The Supreme Court had previously suspended a 2022 acquittal, requiring a re-hearing, which led to the recent decision by the Bombay High Court.
- Critics and human rights groups have condemned Saibaba's arrest and persistent legal challenges as unjust, highlighting the case's international attention.
- The case has been marked by controversies, including the initial lack of sanction for charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, leading to legal debates over the validity of the proceedings.