The opposition warns of a nationwide uproar if the government. won’t drop the UAPA case against YouTuber Ravan by July 17

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A coalition of opposition parties, civil rights activists, retired bureaucrats and journalists on Friday sought the immediate withdrawal of the Unlawful Activities Act (UAPA) case against YouTuber Ravan, alleging that the government is misusing anti-terrorism legislation to suppress dissent.

This demand was made at a round table organized by the CPI here under the chairmanship of its state secretary G. Eswaraiah. The participants gave the government until July 17 to withdraw the UAPA case and warned that they would launch a nationwide agitation if no action was taken.

Leaders of CPI, CPI(M), YSRCP, Congress, AAP, CPI(ML), journalistic bodies and civil society organizations passed a resolution demanding withdrawal of UAPA and sedition charges against the YouTuber. They alleged that the government was targeting critics and repeatedly arresting the YouTuber despite securing bail in several cases.

YSRCP to extend legal aid

Retired IPS officers AB Venkateswara Rao and PV Sunil Kumar contested the UAPA appeal, arguing that any objectionable content could have been dealt with under ordinary criminal laws. They argued that the FIR did not justify the use of anti-terrorism provisions and warned of its implications for freedom of expression.

CPI national leader K. Narayana, CPI(M) leader P. Madhu and YSRCP leader Ambati Rambabu termed the case as politically motivated. Mr. Rambabu announced legal and political support to Mr. Ravan.

Published – 10 Jul 2026 20:31 IST