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COUNCIL of INDIAN MUSLIMS (UK)
British Indian Muslims Welcome the Repeal of POTA
Deplore Modi for not Learning his lesson
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London, 20 September, 2004:
British Indian Muslims have welcomed the repeal of Prevention of terrorism Act notoriously known as POTA in India.
Calling POTA as, "A shameful piece of legislation promulgated by a fascist regime, misused by its heartless machinery to torture and insult, mainly the Muslim community" Chairman of the Council of Indian Muslims — UK (CIM), Mr Munaf Zeena said, "We are happy to see it go."
"By abrogating POTA, Manmohan Singh’s government has proved that it is serious in its effort to restore the confidence of the minorities." Zeena went on, "The replacement of POTA by another draconian act is not a good news. There is no doubt that in view of the menace of terrorism that has gripped the world, a country like India has to equip its law enforcement agencies with some powers to deal with anti-social elements. But what is needed is a clear safeguard against the misuse of powers."
Zeena also attacked the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi for trying to bring a POTA like Act in his state. "If he has any vision he should learn from the incidents in the world. If any ruler in the world is serious about getting rid of terrorists he/she must ensure justice to its citizens. Far from stopping terrorism the so called anti terror laws breed terrorists. Nowhere in the world has jingoism, high handedness and draconian laws have helped check terrorism. By his jingoist slogans Modi is creating a dangerous situation in Gujarat and we urge the Indian President not to approve any Act that could equip Modi with an additional weapon to harass and torture Muslims in Gujarat."
COUNCIL of INDIAN MUSLIMS (UK)
66c Cazenove Road, Stoke Newington, London N16 6AA UK Tel: 020 8806 1147 Fax: 020 8806 6859,
www.coim.org.uk , Email: info@coim.org.uk
For further information please contact Munaf Zeena on 07956335384 q
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