‘NSA invoked on whims and fancies’: Kaziranga activist after court quashed detention

Pranab Doley, a well-known land rights advocate from Kaziranga, was released from jail on Friday after nearly four months of detention. In an interview with The Indian Express, the 40-year-old hailed the Gauhati High Court's decision to invalidate his arrest under the National Security Act (NSA) as a "victory for the people who believe in democracy and want to uphold it."

Doley expressed concern over the misuse of the NSA, stating that such provision was being abused by a select few for expressing dissent and raising legitimate concerns on behalf of the indigenous community whose land would be affected.

On July 12, Doley was apprehended by the Golaghat Police in connection with protests against the construction of a luxury hotel near Kaziranga National Park. After securing bail on July 29, he was subsequently charged under the NSA a day later, claiming that his activities posed a threat to public order and state security. Convenor of the Greater Kaziranga Land and Human Rights Committee, Doley had been vocal about the potential repercussions of the hotel project and the displacement of indigenous villagers.

His ordeal in prison was described as "inhumane, oppressive, and undignifying", highlighting the difficulties he faced while in custody. Despite constant threats, Doley and many others remained hopeful about the younger generation's readiness to lead the fight for rights. Doley's release was welcomed by his elderly parents, neighbors, team members, and well-wishers who had gathered at the prison gates and stayed at his home overnight for his protection.