The Seven-Year Ordeal of Scottish Activist Jagtar Singh Johal in Indian Jail
Scottish activist Jagtar Singh Johal has spent over seven years in an Indian jail after being accused of terrorism-related crimes without conviction. His family alleges his innocence and torture during custody. A recent acquittal in one case has raised hopes for his release, though multiple charges remain. Legal representatives criticize the reliability of evidence and witness testimonies, highlighting serious concerns regarding due process.
Jagtar Singh Johal, a Scottish activist, was arrested on November 4, 2017, while visiting Punjab, India, to celebrate his wedding. Local police officers apprehended him, putting a hood over his head and taking him into custody where he remains without conviction. His family claims he has been falsely accused of terrorism, while Indian authorities label him a dangerous criminal linked to a series of violent incidents.
The allegations against Jagtar include terrorism-related charges such as conspiracy to murder and membership in a terrorist organization. Prosecutors argue that he was involved with a militant group through his website that documented violence against Sikhs during the 1980s. They claim he funneled funds to the Khalistan Liberation Force to aid in violent attacks in 2016 and 2017.
Jagtar’s brother, Gurpreet, initially thought his sibling had been kidnapped, later learning he was in police custody. Concerns escalated about Jagtar’s treatment in jail, with reports of torture and forced confessions emerging. A handwritten note outlined his abuse, including beatings and threats to burn him alive unless he signed blank documents.
After years of court delays and a series of hearings, a verdict was reached in Jagtar’s ninth case, leading to a significant development. Judge Harjeet Singh found the prosecution lacking credible evidence, ultimately acquitting Jagtar of all charges related to this case. This ruling raises questions regarding the remaining cases against him as he continues to face severe allegations in other jurisdictions.
Evidence presented in court was found to be deeply flawed. Arresting officers admitted that no incriminating materials were obtained during Jagtar’s arrest. Testimony from witnesses was unreliable, with one instance highlighting contradictions and a witness eventually acknowledging he had never met Jagtar. The prosecution’s cases have been criticized for relying on testimonies of questionable validity, with various witnesses retracting their statements during trials.
Reprieve, the legal charity representing Jagtar, argues that the case against him has been weak since the beginning, stating, “The process is the punishment – the cases are no more than a thin excuse to keep him in jail.” The ongoing legal proceedings against Jagtar remain a crucial issue that could lead to more severe penalties, including the death penalty.
An acquittal in one case doesn’t necessarily imply the outcome for other cases, yet Reprieve believes that the identical nature of the allegations should weigh in Jagtar’s favor. The UK government’s position has recently strengthened, urging for Jagtar’s release as family members continue to express hope following the acquittal.
Despite the favorable court outcome, Indian authorities have defended their legal processes and previously denied allegations of torture. The outlook for Jagtar’s future remains unclear, pending the resolution of outstanding charges, but his family’s campaign for justice continues earnestly.
Gurpreet expressed optimism, stating, “To be vindicated in court is a great feeling… This judgment can be the beginning of the end of our family’s seven-year nightmare, if the government acts now.”
Jagtar Singh Johal’s case exemplifies a prolonged legal battle marked by accusations of state abuse and lack of adequate evidence. Following his recent acquittal, questions remain regarding the validity of the charges against him in other cases. The claims of torture and the reliability of witness testimonies bring to light issues of justice and human rights within the context of counter-terrorism measures in India. Overall, the situation indicates an urgent need for governmental intervention to secure Jagtar’s release and address the complexities surrounding his case.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
