Amber Phillips
Former Delhi University professor GN Saibaba has passed away at the age of 54, just months after being acquitted in a high-profile case alleging links to Maoist activities. His death came as a shock, especially given his recent legal triumph. The circumstances surrounding his hospitalization and treatment have raised questions regarding the quality of medical care he received while incarcerated.
Health Complications Lead to Untimely Death
GN Saibaba died on Saturday evening at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad. He was suffering from complications following gall bladder surgery that took place two weeks prior. According to reports, Saibaba was admitted to the hospital for nearly 20 days before his passing, which was attributed to post-operative issues.
- Saibaba was wheelchair-bound and had previously alleged that he received inadequate medical attention while in jail.
- He reportedly endured nine months without proper treatment for paralysis on the left side of his body, receiving only painkillers instead.
Officials confirmed the news to the Press Trust of India (PTI), stating that he passed away around 9 PM. His health had deteriorated following the surgery, leading to an untimely end.
Acquittal Story
Saibaba’s legal battle garnered extensive media attention and sparked public debate about human rights in India. In March 2023, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court acquitted him and five others in the alleged Maoist links case. The court found that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims.
- The court ruled that the sanction obtained to charge the accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) was “null and void.”
- Following his acquittal, Saibaba walked out of Nagpur Central Jail after spending nearly a decade behind bars.
His release was not only a personal victory but also a symbol of the ongoing struggle for justice faced by many in similar situations.
Allegations of Mistreatment
Saibaba’s difficulties did not end with his incarceration. He previously alleged that his arrest was a result of “kidnapping” aimed at silencing his voice. He claimed that police officials from Maharashtra threatened him and his family before detaining him. These allegations of mistreatment and his struggles with health issues have raised further concerns about the prison system’s treatment of inmates.
- Saibaba alleged that he was dragged out of his wheelchair during his arrest, resulting in a serious hand injury that adversely affected his nervous system.
- Despite being a high-profile figure, he had faced significant adversity, reportedly being denied proper medical care for an extended period.
Community Reaction
Following Saibaba’s death, K Sambasiva Rao, a member of the Communist Party of India (CPI), expressed his condolences, indicating that his passing is a significant loss for society. The community reaction showcases the impact Saibaba had during his lifetime, both as an educator and a political activist.
- His case has sparked discussions about justice and human rights, particularly for marginalized individuals in the country.
- Supporters and fellow activists are likely to call for a reevaluation of how prisoners are treated, specifically regarding healthcare provisions.
Legacy
GN Saibaba’s story is more than a tale of individual struggle; it reflects larger systemic issues within the Indian justice system. His health complications, fight for justice, and subsequent death highlight the potential consequences of inadequate care for those incarcerated.
As a professor, Saibaba was known for his critical thinking and advocacy on various social issues. His life was marked by both academic achievement and political controversy. His death has reignited meaningful conversations about the rights of prisoners and the responsibility of institutions to uphold those rights.
In today’s society, where the treatment of individuals within the justice system is increasingly scrutinized, Saibaba’s legacy will continue to inspire discussions on human rights, social justice, and the need for reform. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and ethics in the treatment of all individuals, irrespective of their circumstances
