§ 4. Mr. KELLYasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that Mr. Subodh Kumar Lahiri, a State prisoner who was interned at Sirajganji, was released unconditionally on 27th May on the grounds of ill-health; and whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to keep these prisoners interned without trial unless their health gives way?
§ Earl WINTERTONMy information is that the detenu in question was released, on conditions, on the 23rd May from the restrictions under the Bengal Criminal Law Amendment Act which had required him to remain in his own home. I am not aware of the ground on which the restrictions were removed; but the second part of the question is not a correct statement of the policy in this matter which I have frequently explained.
§ Mr. KELLYWill the Noble Lord give consideration to the case of these men and see if it is possible to release them before their health reaches the point of breaking down?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe hon. Gentleman is well aware that I have dealt with this case on three occasions in Debate, and I must respectfully ask him to put down any further questions, if he wishes to continue the Debate on the subject.
§ Mr. THURTLECan the Noble Lord say whether the question of a general release of these prisoners is under consideration?
§ Earl WINTERTONI would refer the hon. Gentleman to the speech which I made on the Estimates when the subject was last before us.