India: Condemn The Illegal Detention of FACAM Members by the Delhi Police Special Cell in Bogus Missing Person Case!
We hereby share the introduction of a statement published by the Forum Against Corporatization and Militarization (FACAM). The full statement can be read here:
Forum Against Corporatization and Militarization (FACAM), a coalition of civil society advocates, journalists, students, intellectuals are issuing an urgent statement to condemn the recent arbitrary detention, alleged torture, and judicial harassment of at least nine activists in Delhi who were either members of FACAM or associated with our activism demanding ceasefire between the proscribed CPI (Maoist) and the Indian government’s paramilitary forces posted in Central India, particularly Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. They were also associated with our prolonged campaign to end the brutal military offensive Operation Kagaar and the Surajkund Scheme of the Indian state. These events represent a severe escalation in the repression of democratic dissent and fundamental rights in India.
Between 11th July to 21st July 2025, nine individuals were reportedly apprehended by the Delhi Police Special Cell without any warrant, notice or procedure being followed. While seven were released after enduring severe mistreatment, brutal torture and threats of rape, one remains under arrest. The police claims this was all done in search of Vallika Varshri, the editor of Nazariya Magazine which is a constituent organization of FACAM. From what we have learned, Vallika left her home willingly and the police discovered her handwritten letter stating her intent on leaving home on the very day these activists were detained. The circumstances of these detentions are profoundly alarming. The individuals targeted include:
Gurkirat (President, bsCEM)
Gaurav (bsCEM)
Gaurang (bsCEM)
Ehtamam (Member of Forum Against Corporatization and Militarization and advocate)
Badal (Member of FACAM, formerly bsCEM)
Mukundan (former member of FACAM, former editorial board member of Nazariya Magazine)
Rudra (Nazariya Magazine)
Samrat (Psychologist and Social Activist from Yamunagar, associated with FACAM)
Priyanshu (PhD student at Delhi University and activist with Delhi General Mazdoor Front) – Currently charged in the Lucknow Conspiracy Case (NRB revival case) and under arrest.
