The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) today called for discriminatory legislation like the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984, Internal Security Act and Official Secrets Act to be repealed as they targeted independent and vocal critics of the government.

While welcoming the acquittal of activist Irene Fernandez, CIJ executive director, V Gayathry said the authorities should also protect whistle blowers in the interest of exposing wrongdoing.