12:54 November 23
Kerala govt puts on hold Kerala Police Act Amendment
Thiruvananthapuram: The CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Government in Kerala on Monday put on hold implementation of the controversial amendment to the state
Police Act citing criticism from various quarters.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government was not intending to implement the amendment act now as even those who supported the LDF and those who stood for the protection of democracy expressed concern about it.
"We are not intending to implement the amended Kerala Police Act. A detailed discussion will be held in the state assembly in this regard and further steps will be taken after hearing views from various quarters," he said in a statement.
Opposition parties have slammed the amendment, brought through an ordinance, providing for imprisonment up to five years to those making defamatory social media posts, saying it was against freedom of speech and the press.
Earlier in the day, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the Kerala Police Act Amendment ordinance will be "reconsidered".
The Kerala Cabinet, last month, had decided to give more teeth to the Police Act by recommending the addition of Section 118-A. It stipulates either imprisonment for up to five years or a fine of up to Rs 10,000 or both to those who produce, publish or disseminate content through any means of communication with an intention to intimidate, insult or defame any person through social media.
Also Read:Kerala police act amendment against freedom of speech, says Opp; Vijayan defends move
