DU Professor Maoist Link Case: Ex-Delhi University Professor GN Saibaba Dies After Acquittal
Former Delhi University (DU) professor GN Saibaba, recently acquitted in the high-profile Maoist link case, has passed away. The 57-year-old died on Saturday at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad. He had been suffering from complications after surgery for a gallbladder infection. He was in the hospital for 20 days before his death.
Key Points:
- GN Saibaba, a former DU professor, died due to post-surgery complications.
- He was acquitted in March 2024 in the Maoist link case.
- Saibaba spent almost a decade in prison before his acquittal.
- The Bombay High Court overturned his life sentence under the UAPA.
- His health worsened after surgery for a gallbladder infection.
Acquittal in the DU Professor Maoist Link Case
GN Saibaba’s name became widely known due to the allegations against him. He was accused of having connections with banned Maoist groups. The DU professor Maoist link case led to his arrest in 2014. In 2017, a trial court in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district convicted him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). He was sentenced to life imprisonment.
However, in March 2024, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court overturned his sentence. The court said the prosecution failed to prove links between Saibaba and Maoist groups. It also stated that the sanction for prosecution under UAPA was invalid. The court ruled that the report recommending UAPA charges against Saibaba was incomplete and poorly prepared.
Long Prison Time and Health Struggles
Saibaba’s troubles began in 2014 when he was arrested. He was accused of helping Maoist groups. He spent two years in jail before getting bail in 2016. However, in 2017, he was convicted and sent back to prison. The DU professor Maoist link case attracted widespread attention. Many believed Saibaba was unfairly targeted for his activism.
Despite his serious health problems, including being wheelchair-bound due to polio, Saibaba spent many years in Nagpur Central Jail. His health worsened during his time in prison. He was reported to suffer from multiple ailments. His supporters continuously campaigned for his release due to his poor health.
Saibaba denied the allegations throughout the legal process. He claimed he was falsely accused because of his work for tribal rights and his criticism of government policies. Many of his supporters believed the case was politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.
Health Problems and Post-Acquittal Life
After his acquittal in March 2024, Saibaba’s health remained fragile. He underwent surgery for a gallbladder infection but suffered complications. His health did not improve, and he was hospitalized in Hyderabad for 20 days before passing away. Despite efforts by doctors, Saibaba could not recover from the surgery.
His death marks the end of a long struggle that spanned nearly a decade. Even though he was finally acquitted, his health had already taken a toll from his time in prison.
Legal and Political Impact of the DU Professor Maoist Link Case
The DU professor Maoist link case raised important questions about using anti-terror laws like the UAPA. The Bombay High Court’s decision to overturn Saibaba’s conviction pointed out serious issues in how the case was handled. The court criticized the authorities for not providing enough evidence and for not following proper legal procedures.
The case also sparked debates about how the UAPA is applied in India. Critics argued that the law is often used to target activists and suppress dissent. The acquittal of Saibaba was seen as a victory for those who believed he was innocent. It also brought attention to the misuse of laws meant for fighting terrorism.
Closing Thoughts
GN Saibaba’s death brings an end to a painful chapter in his life. His case will continue to be remembered as one of the most debated in recent times. The DU professor Maoist link case became a symbol of the struggles between activism, human rights, and the law.
While his acquittal brought relief to his supporters, Saibaba’s health never fully recovered. His death leaves behind many unanswered questions about the charges against him and the broader use of anti-terror laws in India. His legal battle will be remembered as a landmark case in Indian civil liberties.
Key Takeaways:
- Former DU professor GN Saibaba died at 57 after complications from surgery.
- He was acquitted earlier this year in the DU professor Maoist link case.
- The Bombay High Court overturned his life sentence, citing a lack of evidence.
- His case raised questions about the use of the UAPA in targeting activists.
- Saibaba’s health had been deteriorating for years due to his long imprisonment.
Saibaba’s story will continue to inspire discussions about justice, civil rights, and the application of laws like the UAPA. The DU professor Maoist link case will remain a significant point in legal and political debates in India.
