Mumbai: After Legal Battle, CPI(M) Gets Nod For Gaza Protest At Azad Maidan

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court has granted permission to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] to hold a peaceful protest condemning the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

As per Live Law, a division bench of Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Gautam Ankhad accepted the statement of the Mumbai Police that the demonstration will take place at Azad Maidan, a designated protest site in the city.

Second Legal Battle for Protest Rights

This marks the second time the CPI(M) has approached the High Court seeking approval for such a protest. In an earlier hearing, the same bench had criticised the party for not prioritising issues affecting Indian citizens, instead focusing on conflicts happening thousands of miles away. The judges had remarked that merely speaking up for Gaza does not amount to patriotism, urging the party to be patriots.

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Party Challenges Police Rejections

In its latest petition, the CPI(M) challenged multiple orders by the Mumbai Police, dated June 19, July 15, and July 31, rejecting its requests to hold the protest. The party called these refusals arbitrary and unjust.

According to the petition, the protest aims to express solidarity with the people of Gaza, who are facing a humanitarian crisis marked by genocide and a blockade on aid. The CPI(M) said the demonstration is part of an international movement calling for a ceasefire in Palestine.

Police Nod Paves Way for Demonstration

Following the police’s confirmation in court that the protest can be held at Azad Maidan, the bench allowed the event to proceed peacefully.