Noida workers' protest: HC seeks UP govt response on scribe's detention under NSA

Prayagraj: The Allahabad high court on Friday directed UP govt to file its reply on a habeas corpus writ petition concerning journalist Satyam Verma, who was arrested last month and later booked under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) on the allegations of instigating workers to carry out violence during the Noida labourers' protest.A division bench comprising Justice Salil Kumar Rai and Justice Devendra Singh directed the state counsel to file its counter affidavit by July 13, the next date for hearing. The petition alleges serious procedural irregularities in the arrest and custodial transfer process and has accordingly sought his release along with preservation of electronic and documentary evidence relating to the detention.Verma, who was arrested from Lucknow on April 17, was separately booked on May 13 under the stringent National Security Act.According to the Uttar Pradesh Police, Verma had a key role in the violence and arson during the workers' protest, as he attempted to disrupt public order by provoking people in various areas.The workers were protesting to put forth their demands for a wage hike and improved working conditions. As per reports, on April 13, incidents of vehicle burning, trespassing and stone pelting were reported in a few places. Following this, police lathicharged workers and detained hundreds, along with seven activists.