Protect democracy

Sir, - The Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO) is draconian and poses a serious threat to civil liberties. From various news reports, it appears that its provisions provide wide discretionary powers to police officers. We have seen in the past how the powers were used to oppress the people.

It is widely known that the police's powers are used to gain political mileage and for private gains. The disturbing trend is the Government's obsession to possess extraordinary powers. Given the political situation, States are bound to misuse the provisions under the guise of countering terrorism. It is pertinent to recall the National Police Commission's third report which states 60 per cent of the arrests were unnecessary or unjustified, 42 per cent of the expenditure in the jails was for persons who need not have been arrested.

The basic values of fundamental right, freedom and democracy derived from our Constitution need to be protected. The need of the hour is to effect comprehensive reform in the criminal justice system in India.

V. Srinivasan,

Chennai

Sir, - The POTO has created fear among the innocent people and its unclear provisions make the political parties stand apart. The powers given to the police to detain a person and stringent bail provisions are liable to be misused. It may also lead to the police using third degree methods against the innocent.

The Government should consult all political parties before enacting such legislation.

S. Ganapathi Viswanathan,

Tiruppur, T.N.

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Section  : Opinion
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