HRF asks Telangana CM to review Maoist-linked prisoner cases

The Human Rights Forum has urged Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to conduct a case-by-case review of prisoners jailed over alleged Maoist links. In a letter dated August 24, the HRF welcomed the state government's recent release of 14 life convicts but noted that many prisoners from poor or tribal backgrounds lack access to legal aid, making their continued incarceration a consequence of poverty rather than guilt.

The HRF asked the CM to direct officials to identify long-term undertrial prisoners and present their cases to courts for bail or other remedies. It demanded high-quality legal aid for indigent prisoners and that families receive timely updates on legal proceedings. The group also urged authorities to consider withdrawing prosecution where evidence does not justify charges.

The HRF said prolonged imprisonment has lasting effects on prisoners' families and called for a comprehensive review of all persons held in Maoist-related cases in Telangana, especially those in custody for extended periods.