Scrap sedition law, UAPA enough to protect nation's integrity: Sharad Pawar tells Bhima Koregaon probe panel

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has filed an additional affidavit before the Bhima Koregaon inquiry commission, saying that Section 124A (sedition) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) should be repealed because provisions under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) are sufficient.

The commission is probing the reasons that led to a riot that took place on Jan 1, 2018, in Bhima Koregaon, Pune.

As in his previously filed affidavit of 2018, Pawar again stated that he had no knowledge or information about the sequence of events that led to the riots of 2018. "I have no allegation to make against any political agenda or motive behind the unfortunate incident. It is only an attempt to assist the commission to the best of my ability and knowledge owing to my long experience in public life," read Pawar's affidavit.

The nine-page affidavit filed by Pawar suggested that the role of media is essential in a vibrant democracy and that the media could be utilised to avoid riot-like situations. "First-hand information can be gathered regarding any unlawful assembly and intention of such unlawful assembly or mob from responsible media professionals. Law enforcement agencies can then take preemptive action and control/deter riot-like situations. A responsible media can even act as a bridge of communication between protesters and government/police/authorities and ease tensions and avoid spread of any misinformation," the affidavit stated.