§ SIR H. COTTONI beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the character of the sentences which are being passed in India on persons who are accused of seditious utterances; and whether the Government will consider the propriety of issuing instructions which will prohibit the herding of political offenders with common criminals.
§ MR. BUCHANANThe Secretary of State does not consider it necessary to take action in the manner suggested by the hon. Member. The punishment for offences under Section 124a Indian Penal Code varies over a wide range, from fine without any imprisonment through simple imprisonment and rigorous imprisonment up to transportation for life. As regards simple imprisonment, Inspectors-General of Gaols already have authority to order the provision of separate accommodation for prisoners in certain cases.
§ LORD R. CECIL (Marylebone, E.)Is there anything in Indian legislation which makes incitement to murder a political offence?
§ [No Answer was returned.]