CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Hong Kong has witnessed a surge in arrests and convictions under its controversial National Security Law (NSL), with dozens of pro-democracy activists facing long-term imprisonment. Introduced in June 2020, the law has sparked international outcry for its sweeping measures that critics argue curtail freedom of speech and dissent.
The NSL criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, with penalties ranging from fines to life imprisonment. While the Hong Kong government asserts that the law is necessary to restore order and stability, activists and human rights groups claim it is being used to silence political opposition and erode the city’s autonomy.
Recent cases include the imprisonment of prominent figures such as Joshua Wong and Agnes Chow, who have been vocal advocates for democracy in Hong Kong. The arrests have raised concerns about the future of political freedoms in the city, with many activists forced into exile or underground movements.
The international community, including the United States and European Union, has condemned the law, urging China to uphold the “one country, two systems” framework. As more activists face prosecution, the NSL remains a contentious point in Hong Kong’s political landscape.
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