The Institutional Ordeal of G N Saibaba: A Hero's Tragic End

Activist Harsh Mander has called the death of former Delhi University professor G N Saibaba an 'institutional murder,' citing his deteriorating health due to harsh jail conditions. Saibaba passed away after post-operative complications, seven months following his acquittal on charges of links to Maoist activities.

At a memorial organized by the National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled, supporters gathered to honor Saibaba's commitment to justice and human rights. Despite his exoneration, they contended his prolonged incarceration during the COVID-19 pandemic took a severe toll on his health, culminating in his untimely death.

Saibaba's case drew attention to systemic issues, with allegations of institutional neglect from both the judiciary and disability rights organizations. Critics argue that the lack of support from the university and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities compounded his suffering, exemplifying larger governance failures.