Arrest of Activist Journalist Sparks Controversy in Kerala

A student activist and independent journalist, Rejaz M. Sheeba Sydeek from Kerala, was arrested for purportedly preparing to wage war against the Indian government. Alongside him, his friend from Nagpur, Isha Kumari, was also detained. Sydeek writes on issues like caste discrimination and state repression.

An independent journalist and student activist from Kerala, Rejaz M. Sheeba Sydeek, has been detained by authorities for allegedly preparing to wage war against the Government of India, a police official reported on Thursday.

Along with Sydeek, a Nagpur-based friend named Isha Kumari was also arrested. According to officials from the Lakadganj police station, Sydeek was arrested on multiple charges, including preparing to wage war against the government and criminal intimidation.

Niharika Pradaush, a committee member of Sydeek's affiliation, the Democratic Students Association, informed that he had been visiting a friend in Nagpur on the way back from attending a press conference in Delhi demanding the release of incarcerated journalists. Sydeek contributes to various media outlets, focusing on issues of social justice and marginalized communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)