'All actions in accordance with law': MEA on criticism over handling of Stan Swamy's case

NEW DELHI: India on Tuesday responded to criticism over Stan Swamy's case, a Jesuit priest and an accused in Elgar Parishad case who died on Monday, saying actions by the concerned authorities were strictly in accordance with the law.
The ministry of external affairs (MEA) asserted that India is committed to promotion and protection of human rights of all its citizens.
"Father Stan Swamy was arrested and detained by the National Investigation Agency following due process under law. Because of the specific nature of charges against him, his bail applications were rejected by the courts. Authorities in India act against violations of law and not against legitimate exercise of rights," MEA said.
MEA's response came soon after the UN body on human rights expressed shock over Stan Swamy's death and said it was "deeply saddened and disturbed".
"In view of Stan Swamy’s ailing health, the Bombay high court had allowed his medical treatment at a private hospital where he was receiving all possible medical attention since May 28," MEA's official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.
"Stan Swamy's health and medical treatment was being closely monitored by the courts. He passed away on July 5 following medical complications," Bagchi added.
The 84-year-old was undergoing treatment at the intensive care unit of the Holy Family Hospital, where he was shifted from the Taloja prison in Navi Mumbai following the Bombay high court's order. He was waiting for interim bail on medical grounds in the case.
In a statement, the UN body urged government to ensure that no one is detained for exercising their fundamental rights to freedom of expression, of peaceful assembly and of association.
"We are deeply saddened and disturbed by the death of 84-year-old Father Stan Swamy," Liz Throssell, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said.
Earlier today, 10 opposition leaders wrote to President Ram Nath Kovind demanding Kovind’s immediate intervention to direct the government to act against those responsible for “foisting false cases” on Father Swamy, for his continued detention in jail, and for the inhuman treatment meted out to him while there.