From Exception to Routine: The Dangerous Normalisation of Preventive Detention

Can a democracy justify imprisoning its citizens not for what they have done, but for what they might do? Preventive detention remains one of the most paradoxical features of India’s constitutional framework. While the Constitution guarantees personal liberty under Article 21, it simultaneously permits the State to detain individuals without trial under Article 22. In 2025, the continued reliance on such laws raises uncomfortable questions about their necessity in a democratic society.

Originally justified on grounds of national security, preventive detention laws are now frequently invoked in routine law-and-order situations. This shift dilutes the exceptional nature of such powers. The Supreme Court has repeatedly cautioned against their misuse, notably in Rekha v. State of Tamil Nadu, emphasizing that detention cannot substitute ordinary criminal procedure.

Yet, the practice persists. The absence of timely judicial review and vague standards like “public order” create space for executive overreach. In effect, individuals are punished without conviction, undermining the presumption of innocence.

A constitutional democracy cannot function on anticipatory punishment. Preventive detention, as it operates today, reflects a colonial legacy that prioritizes control over liberty. It is time to revisit its scope and restore the balance between State power and individual freedom.

|

 My Blog

|

Beyond Books: How Clubs and Associations Shape Life at KJU Concept Driven Dining: An Emerging Business Trend Shaping Changemakers - Fostering Sustainability and Innovation Beyond Gold: In Search of Smarter Alternatives The Growing Concern of Obesity Among College Students Saturday: Where Work Slows, and Rest Begins Christmas at KJU The Global Community That Makes Kristu Jayanti University Special Finding Myself at Kristu Jayanti University The OG BPM FAM Kristu Jayanti University Extends Warmth Through “Sarthakam Phase II” Beaches or Mountains? The Invisible Pressure of Being Interesting Kristu Jayanti University Champions a Ragging-Free Campus Run with Speed, Win with Focus Red Blossom: Nature's Rhythm and Women's Strength Mental Health Matters as Much as Grades Ethnic Day 2025 - Sanskriti Sangama Exploring Jakarta: A Journey of Culture, Nature, and Urban Life Top 10 Things Every Fresher Should Know About Kristu Jayanti University Innovation, Institutions, and the Engines of Growth: Understanding the 2025 Nobel Laureates in Economics Game Theory: Cracking the Code of College Decisions The Opportunity Cost of Scrolling: What You're Actually Giving Up Home Doesn’t Feel Like Home Anymore A Celebration of Cultures at KJU The Juice Vendor Who Inspires The Economics of a Student: Budgeting for Ramen and Textbooks Excelsior 2025: Carving the Path to Runners-Up Success The 4th Jayantian Cup: Basketball and Boundless Energy at Kristu Jayanti University Voices of Hope: Learning and Healing at Kristu Jayanti My BBA Journey in AI & Data Science at Kristu Jayanti University Books and Loneliness: A Thought Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures Selective Activism: The Convenience of Caring for the ‘Gram’ My Creative Journey and Why One Should Write Leadership: A Skill Built Over Time Good Health = Good Life The Glamour of Ordinary Things The Art of Being Me What are the Odds? Unlocking the Magic of Probability in Everyday Life From Chennai to Bangalore: A Journey of Culture, Education and New Beginnings Vichaarmanthan The Spark Within Into the Himalayas: Trekking to Gaumukh, The Origin of the Ganga AINOMICS Beyond Academics: Building Character at Kristu Jayanti Between Hogwarts and Utilities You Were Born for Me, Love Beyond Books: Research Culture Decent Work and Economic Growth - Why It Matters to Students My Journey Into the NCC: From Dreams to Reality Finding Peace in God’s Presence The Power of a Genuine Smile Facilities That Shape Futures: Why Kristu Jayanti University Feels Like Home Thank You, Teachers: Lighting the Path Forward Jai Hind 2025 Career path - Linear or Lattice Kristu Jayanti: Transition to Deemed to be University and Opportunities for Student Growth Major Achievements of Kristu Jayanti University (KJU) Department of Social Work-Alumni Interaction Series Writers’ Orientation 2025: A Fresh Chapter From Bus Wars to Backbench Gossips: A Day at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) Through My Eyes: From College to University The Healing Power of the Classroom Green Nanotechnology from the Oceans: A Breakthrough Study by Kristu Jayanti University Educate for Holistic Development Sustainability Beyond the Podium: My Takeaways from ICEBS 2024 Pangong TSO: A Journey into Serenity World Entrepreneurs' Day Women's Equality Day: Honoring Progress, Inspiring Action Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University): A World that Rewards Growth, Not Just Victory Footprints Recalled Parrots of Knowledge Anti-Ragging Call for Blog Contributions: Share Your Voice on the KJU Blog The Serenity of Rain Rising Strong: Building Resilience in Learning and Life New Beginnings!!! Metamorphosis Toxicology and Drug Response: The Thin Line Between Healing and Harm The Strategic Value of Preprints in Academic Publishing Life at Kristu Jayanti: A Campus Culture That Inspires Shivasamudram A Legacy of Learning, A Future of Leadership: Kristu Jayanti University Embracing Nature: Kristu Jayanti’s Green Campus Philosophy A New dawn in Education : Kristu Jayanti College Becomes Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) Vanijyadarpan: A Transformative First-Year Experience माँ से जीवन Life Begins with the Mother Exploring the World Through News: My Experience Leading a Current Affairs Session at Kristu Jayanti College My Experience at HMT: A Day of Learning Beyond the Classroom Why Me? Always Me Savoring India's Culinary Heritage: Our Experience at the Yaan 2025 Vanijyadarpan 2025: Import and Export Procedure Vanijyadarpan 2025: Types of Business Organization YAAN 2025: A Culinary Journey Across India Adroit 2025: A Celebration of Excellence and Collaboration SDG4: Quality Education Republic Day: A Nation United, A Legacy to Remember Cost Horizons 2025 Ecnotech 2025: Towards A Sustainable Future SDG5: Gender Equality A Session on Script Writing The Ultimate Survival Guide: Tips and Tricks to Get through the Prime of Your Youth International Conference on Asia's Maritime History and Identity at Cultural Crossroad Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) - Kristu Jayanti Sarva Vikas Viksit Bharat @2047 Meliora 2025: A Celebration of Literary Brilliance Palatum Litterarum Poet's Rendezvous Life: A Journey, Not A Problem Prodigy 2025 Embracing Diversity and Growth: My Journey at Kristu Jayanti College, Autonomous, Bangalore Millets & Organics - International Trade Fair 2025 The Gentlemen's Game ft. KJC Pre-Event to International Trade Fair 2025: Organics & Millets A Grain of Hope: Millet
International Choreographers Day The World Day of War Orphans International Human Solidarity Day National Energy Conservation Day 2022 International Universal Health Coverage Day Civil defence raising day 2022 Good food sprouts from good soil International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2022 Safeguard nature, because it's your home College Canteens are not fancy restaurants but MEMORIES forever Lead the best future by being the best learner today The Magic of Christopher Nolan A Narrative about how College help to Transform the Dream My Friends at the Entrance "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."- Nelson Mandela "The children of today will make the India of tomorrow”- Jawaharlal Nehru Get the education that needs to discover your authentic self A walk down memory lane ‘Meet the Scholar’: A new chapter in the book memories Chavara Square Truth Never Dies: International Day To End Impunity For Crimes Against Journalists Ethnic Day 2022: Diversity meets Unity World Sight Day 2022: “Love Your Eyes” Let's work together to end world hunger Kalajyothi’ - An Emotion Road Safety Awareness Campaign was held by Kristu Jayanti College KJC commemorated "World Students Day" to honour Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's devoted service to the country KJC Caters to your Welfare to the Finest International Day of the Girl Child The Equal Opportunity Cell in Kristu Jayanti College KJC- An Ideal Filmmaking Environment for Students The Next Level My Experience in the College’s Mission to Nurture Academic Excellence in Students The Next Level I am a Jayantian KJC: The Dream We Have for College Life My Place of Happiness Amidst Chaos What is Literature?
Admissions Open 2026–27: Enroll now for UG, PG, and Law programmes for the academic year 2026–27 Apply Now