July 11, 2024
2 mins read

US lawmakers push India for probe into Stan Swamy’s death

According to the resolution, Father Stan played a key role in the Pathalgadi movement, a significant Adivasi movement in contemporary India….reports Asian Lite News

Three American lawmakers have introduced a resolution in the US House of Representatives, urging India to conduct an independent investigation into the arrest, incarceration, and death of human rights activist Father Stan Swamy, who died in custody on July 5, 2021.

The resolution, introduced by Congressman Juan Vargas along with lawmakers Jim McGovern and Andre Carson, expresses concern over the alleged misuse of anti-terror laws to target human rights defenders and political opponents.

The resolution also commends a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of India to suspend a controversial colonial-era sedition law and urges India’s Parliament to make this suspension permanent.

It emphasizes that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right as enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.

“Father Stan dedicated his life to giving a voice to the voiceless. He was a tireless advocate for the rights of the indigenous Adivasi people, trained young community leaders, and worked for justice for many communities in India,” said Vargas.

“As a former Jesuit, I am horrified that Father Stan faced relentless abuse and was denied medical care while in custody. I introduced this resolution to ensure that Father Stan and his lifelong commitment to the greater good are never forgotten.”

Father Stanislaus Lourduswamy, known as Father Stan, was born on April 26, 1937, in Viragalur, a village in the Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, India. Inspired by Jesuit priests from an early age, he began studying theology in 1957.

According to the resolution, Father Stan played a key role in the Pathalgadi movement, a significant Adivasi movement in contemporary India. This movement used Adivasi stone carving traditions to spread information among Adivasi communities about their constitutional rights.

“During his decades in Jharkhand, Father Stan advocated for and raised awareness about the implementation of provisions of the Indian Constitution, such as the Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) or PESA Act, which instituted self-governance for people living in Adivasi lands,” the resolution stated.

ALSO READ: PM Modi Seeks Austrian Investments

Previous Story

Seven states see varied turnout in 13 assembly bypolls

Next Story

Envoys of Quad nations hold meeting in Beijing

Latest from -Top News

India, Namibia to Boost Ties During Modi Visit

This will be the first visit of Prime Minister Modi to Namibia, and the third-ever Prime Ministerial visit from India to Namibia….reports Asian Lite News Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to

Quantum Leap Secures India’s Edge

The Minister said India has entered a new quantum era, set to transform future warfare….reports Asian Lite News India has taken a major leap in defence and cyber security by successfully demonstrating

India’s Growth Defies West Asia Tensions

The deepening crisis in West Asia, particularly between Israel and Iran, has had little to no visible impact on India’s economic trajectory or its export performance….reports Asian Lite News The limited trade

FM Sitharaman Embarks on Three-Nation Tour

She is leading the Indian delegation from the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance….reports Asian Lite News Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman commenced her official visit to Spain, Portugal,
Go toTop

Don't Miss

US President to sign bills to scrap Russia, Belarus trade status

The US Senate on Thursday passed legislation to suspend Permanent

White House denies ‘warning’ India

“President Biden believes our partnership with India is one of