The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports regarding the detention of five activists who were protesting against tree felling near KBR Park in Hyderabad. This development comes just days after the Supreme Court ordered a halt to further tree felling in the area.
Background of the Incident
On May 13, the activists were detained by the police while participating in protests against the removal of trees in and around the KBR National Park, a vital green lung space in the city. They were allegedly held at the Banjara Hills police station for several hours before being released on bail later that day.
Legal Charges Filed
An FIR was registered against the activists under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 126(2): Pertaining to wrongful restraint
- Section 324(4): Relating to causing loss or damage to property
- Section 351(1): Dealing with criminal intimidation
- Section 3(5): Concerning acts committed with common intention
NHRC's Observations
The NHRC noted that the allegations, if proven true, could amount to a violation of the activists' human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful protest. The Commission has sought a detailed report from the Telangana authorities on the circumstances leading to the arrests and the subsequent police action.
