On August 6, 2023, the police in Kalahandi district, Odisha, arrested HRDs Krushna Sikaka and Bari Sikaka, members of NSS, under false pretences. The arrests were made while the HRDs were engaging with villagers about World Indigenous Day. Subsequently, a series of fabricated charges were imposed on them, including those under the draconian UAPA.

The Odisha police violated multiple sections of the DK Basu guidelines, as the arrests lacked proper procedures. The use of UAPA against the HRDs is a misuse of power, undermining the principles of natural justice, rule of law, and due process. The charges assume guilt, contradicting the presumption of innocence. The UAPA's provisions are in contravention of international human rights standards.

HRDA urgently appeals to the National Human Rights Commission to:

• To Direct the Odisha Director General of Police to immediately release HRD Krushna Sikaka.
• To Instruct dropping of all charges, especially under UAPA, against the HRDs.
• To Initiate an independent investigation into the illegal arrests, fabricated charges, and violations of human rights defenders by Odisha police.
• To Take strict action against police officials responsible for these violations, adhering to DK Basu guidelines and international laws.
• To Express concerns to the Government of India and the Indian Parliament regarding HRDs facing anti-terror charges without a fair trial.