Kochi: Kerala High Court Friday has observed that mere membership of the Maoist organizations does not make a person criminal unless he or she resorts to treason or unlawful activities.

“Maoism is an ideology. Though the Maoist ideology is in contrast to the Indian Constitution, no one can be taken in custody on that ground. They can only be taken in custody only of the investigation agency furnishes evidences that they committed the crime,” the court said.

The court’s sensational observation came in response to a petition filed by an individual, stating that he was harassed by Thunderbolt team.

The court has also ordered to provide an amount of Rs. one lakh as compensation to the petitioner.