Ahnaf Jazeem, a Tamil Muslim poet hailing from Silavathurai, Mannar in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, has once again submitted an application to the competent authority, seeking the removal of his name from the terrorist blacklist. This latest appeal comes as Ahnaf asserts that there is no substantial evidence against him and alleges discriminatory treatment, particularly in contrast to the government's actions regarding others on the list.

Ahnaf Jazeem gained recognition as a poet when he penned the Tamil poetry anthology "Navarasam" in 2017. However, his life took a drastic turn when he was arrested under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. The Act claimed that "Navarasam" promoted extremism, which led to Ahnaf's detention without formal charges for an extended period of over a year.

The decision to arrest and detain Ahnaf Jazeem has sparked concerns over freedom of expression and the potential misuse of anti-terrorism laws. Supporters argue that the poet's work is a form of artistic expression and should not be equated with promoting terrorism.

Ahnaf's latest application to have his name removed from the terrorist blacklist highlights the persistent battle he faces in seeking redress. Discrimination claims have emerged, as he points out disparities in the government's handling of similar cases where names have been removed from the list.