HC Deb 29 June 1936 vol 314 c4
7. Mr. JAGGER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that Maulana Inayatulla, a Moslem leader, is now under arrest, and will he state the reason for such arrest?

Mr. BUTLER

I am aware that the Government of the Punjab decided in May to institute proceedings against Maulana Inayatulla under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code for a seditious speech made at the Ahrar Conference at Jaranwala.

Mr. JAGGER

Would it be correct to say that this seditious speech was advocating violence, or merely expressing an opinion?

Mr. BUTLER

I have not a copy of the speech before me, and I would rather see the speech before I replied to that question?

Mr. JAGGER

Would the hon. Gentleman be able to get a copy of the speech and let us see it?

Mr. BUTLER

It is quite likely that I have one available, in which case I will study it more closely before I let the hon. Member have a reply.

Mr. THURTLE

Can the hon. Gentleman say how much longer it will be before the accused is brought for trial?

Mr. BUTLER

I should require notice of that question.