In a poignant letter, Sai Baba sheds light on the inhumane treatment of disabled prisoners, calling for respect and rights for those in confinement.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – G.N. Sai Baba, a former Delhi University professor and a fervent advocate for human rights, expressed his distress over the treatment of disabled individuals in prisons in a heartfelt letter to disability rights activist Murali Dharan. Sai Baba, who was wheelchair-bound due to 90% disability, spent ten harrowing years in Nagpur Central Jail before his release seven months ago, when the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court quashed his life sentence under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). He passed away on October 12.
In his letter, written in October 2017, Sai Baba detailed the indignities he faced while incarcerated, stating, “I have refused to be taken to a government hospital from jail because the last time I was taken, I was cruelly treated like a piece of luggage. Now, there is no dignity left. Just as a pet animal is respectfully taken to the hospital, I should be taken with dignity.” His poignant words highlight the stark contrast between the treatment of animals and disabled individuals within the healthcare system. “But since I have refused to go in that manner, I am suffering in pain without treatment. I do not know how long I can survive in this condition,” he lamented.
Despite his suffering, Sai Baba aimed to utilise his time in prison to educate himself and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. He sought critical materials on the limitations of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2017) and expressed a desire to train himself as an activist. “I want to use my time in jail to read necessary materials on disability studies,” he wrote, illustrating his commitment to the cause even in the face of adversity.
Murali Dharan, who received Sai Baba’s letter, acknowledged the challenges of communicating with him while he was incarcerated. He explained to The Wire, “I wasn’t sure if Sai Baba would receive my letter in jail or if the authorities would allow my letter or books on disability to reach him.” This highlights the obstacles faced by activists, even in their attempts to support one another.
Sai Baba’s plight is emblematic of the broader issues confronting disabled prisoners in India. His case underscores the urgent need for reforms to ensure that the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their physical limitations, are respected and upheld.
As per his wishes, G.N. Sai Baba’s body was donated to a hospital, reflecting his lifelong commitment to social justice and the empowerment of marginalised communities. His legacy as a dedicated advocate for disability rights will continue to inspire those who strive for equality and respect for all individuals.
