Aslam Cyclewala Arrested Under PASA Act; Surat City Congress Alleges Political Vendetta

Surat :  The Surat city police arrested former Congress councilor from Limbayat municipal ward, Aslam Cyclewala, under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities (PASA) Act, sparking allegations of political vendetta and attempts to suppress opposition voices. The arrest comes ahead of a crucial by-election in Municipal ward no. 20, where Cyclewala holds significant influence, further intensifying the controversy surrounding the incident.

The Surat City Congress unit has vehemently opposed the arrest, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of manipulating the legal system to weaken the voices of those who raise concerns against injustice. In response to the arrest, the Congress unit submitted a memorandum to the Surat city police commissioner, demanding the immediate cessation of legal action against Cyclewala.

Hasmukh Desai, the Surat City Congress President, expressed strong support for Cyclewala, describing him as a prominent social activist who has actively worked for the betterment of the downtrodden and backward sections of society. Cyclewala’s consistent efforts in raising their issues have earned him a reputation as a vocal advocate for the marginalized.

The arrest of Aslam Cyclewala has drawn sharp criticism from the Congress party, which alleges that the action taken by the Surat city police is a calculated attempt to stifle his political activism and undermine the moral strength of the Congress party. The timing of the arrest, just ahead of the by-election in Municipal ward no. 20, has further fueled suspicions of political interference.

Speaking on behalf of the Congress party, Hasmukh Desai pointed out that Cyclewala’s arrest could be strategically aimed at influencing the poll outcome in the municipal ward. By sidelining Cyclewala, who is known for his ability to rally support and mobilize voters, the BJP may seek to gain an advantage in the upcoming by-election.

Cyclewala’s arrest under the PASA Act has prompted concerns among opposition parties about the potential misuse of preventive detention laws for silencing political opponents. The Congress party is calling for a transparent and impartial investigation into the matter to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law upheld.