Police Allege Maoist Links in Environmental Protest
Delhi Police informed a Delhi court on Monday that five individuals arrested during an environmental demonstration at India Gate had allegedly raised slogans praising slain Maoist leader Madvi Hidma. The protest, which centered on pollution concerns, took an unexpected turn when police claimed participants used pepper spray on personnel.
Multiple FIRs and Serious Charges
The first FIR was registered at Kartavya Path Police Station under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges included assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty, voluntarily causing hurt, contempt of lawful authority of public servants, and disobedience to lawful orders. This initial case led to the arrest of five protesters.
A separate FIR filed at Parliament Street Police Station targeted 17 additional individuals. This second case included charges of disobedience to orders of a public servant, obstructing public servants, and punishment for wrongful restraint.
Court Proceedings and Defense Claims
During court proceedings, the investigating officer made the significant claim that students were chanting slogans in support of Madvi Hidma, a Maoist leader killed in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh earlier this month. Judicial magistrate Aridaman Singh Cheema, who heard the case against the five students, ordered them to two days of judicial custody.
The defense counsel presented a contrasting narrative, alleging that at least three students suffered torture during police interrogation. Photographs showing bruise marks on the students' bodies were submitted as evidence of police brutality. "They are just students; they went there for a peaceful protest, not to indulge in any anti-national activity," the lawyer argued, questioning the police's investigative methods.
Meanwhile, judicial magistrate Sahil Monga sent the 17 other accused to three days of judicial custody, extending the legal proceedings surrounding the India Gate demonstration.
