Sun Mar 30 15:07:55 UTC 2025: ## Madurai Activist Awaits Witness Protection Three Months After Application

**Madurai, March 30, 2025** – M. Gnanasekaran, a Madurai-based activist who exposed illegal stone quarries, is still awaiting witness protection three months after applying for it, despite facing multiple attacks. Gnanasekaran, who works with the Human Rights Defenders’ Alert – India (HRDA), filed his application in December 2024 after being assaulted by individuals linked to the quarries. His application, which named 29 potential threats, seeks protection under the Witness Protection Scheme, 2018, including relocation and security measures for his home.

Advocate S.K. Venkat Raman of HRDA highlights that the Supreme Court’s order mandates a swift response, including a threat analysis within five days and the issuance of protection orders within another five working days. He criticizes the lack of timely response, especially considering Gnanasekaran’s role in shutting down two illegal quarries and saving the government significant financial losses. Raman questions the government’s responsibility to protect a whistleblower who has prevented state losses.

A separate petition has been filed in the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court by Advocate R. Alagumani, demanding authorities expedite the application process. Alagumani also alleges that an RTI response from the Madurai Superintendent of Police regarding the protection offer was misleading and inconsistent with the court order. The delay raises concerns about the protection afforded to activists in the state who face threats for their work.

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