Jul 3, 2008 (DVB), The health of 88 Generation Students group member Myo Yan Naung Thein has got progressively worse in Insein prison, a close friend of his family told DVB on condition of anonymity.

Myo Yan Naung Thein has been charged with causing public alarm and inciting offences against the public tranquility under section 505(b) of the penal code.

The family friend said someone had to carry Myo Yan Naung Thein when he appeared in court as he could no longer walk.

"He is partly paralyzed and urgently needs an operation," said the family friend.

"He is now in this situation because authorities refused his request for proper medical access to treat injuries he sustained when he was under interrogation, and he has to live in poor conditions."

Myo Yan Naing Thein was arrested on 14 December 2007 because of his links with activists who filmed the September protests and spoke to foreign media outlets.

According to Amnesty International, Myo Yan Naung Thein was tortured after his arrest by Special Branch police interrogators and members of the junta-backed militia Swan Arr Shin. He was left paralysed on his left side due to head injuries from severe beatings and cannot walk unaided.

Myo Yan Naung Thein spent two weeks in hospital in May, but his condition did not improve.

When he asked to see a neurologist, he was placed in isolation in a cell used for prisoners with psychiatric problems where he is still being held.

He continues to be denied access to a specialist and AI reports that prison authorities have told him they "do not have the responsibility to give medical treatment".

Reporting by Khin Hnin Htet