On the eve of abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, the government started a major crackdown arresting more than 5,000 people in the following days including three former chief minister, politicians, lawyers and trade union leaders. While many have been gradually released including two former chief ministers but dozens including J&K High Court Bar Association president Mian Abdul Qayoom still remain behind bars in jails.

Quoting sources, a local news agency KNO reported that that PSA detention orders of 41 persons languishing in different jails of Uttar Pradesh were revoked today morning.

The PSA permits detention of a person without trial up to two years.

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the government set up high powered panel to decide about the release of prisoners. The move was aimed at de-congesting the jails following the spread of the virus. The J&K High Court on April 12 had called for a report from the government about release of prisoners in accordance with directions of a the panel. The direction was passed after a report filed by VK Singh, Director General (Prisons), informed the court that the Committee appointed pursuant to the directions of Supreme Court of India had directed all Jail Superintendents to take action in terms of its recommendations. Sixty-three prisoners, including 22 who were arrested under Public Safety Act (PSA), were released to decongest jails across Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. Besides, sanction for parole has been granted to 19 persons.

Until now, a total 140 PSA detention orders including 36 on Monday have been revoked.