Bombay HC Seeks State’s Stand On CPI(M) Plea Over Denial Of Gaza Protest At Azad Maidan

The Bombay High Court on Monday asked public prosecutor to take instructions on a plea filed by Communist Party of India (Marxist), challenging the Mumbai Police’s refusal to grant permission for a protest at Azad Maidan against the alleged genocide in Gaza. 

CPI(M) contended that the police refused permission on the grounds that the protest was against India’s foreign policy and that it could lead to a law and order problem. It added that even if the protest went against foreign policy, citizens have the right to demonstrate at a designated spot. The possibility of a law and order situation cannot be used as a reason to deny that right.

However, the additional public prosecutor highlighted that the police had received objections to the proposed protest and anticipated potential law and order issues; hence, permission was denied.

HC has kept the matter for hearing on August 12, Tuesday.