The Mumbai Police searched the home of an activist associated with Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine, causing concerns over potential violations of democratic rights and civil liberties.
On Friday, the Mumbai Police allegedly conducted a search at the home of a volunteer and student, Harshada, who is associated with citizens’ group Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine. The search reportedly took place without any warrant or written notice, according to Pooja, Harshada’s friend and a member of the same organization.
Starting 5:30 pm, uniformed police personnel carried out the searches. The group alleges that five activists were initially prevented from leaving the home during the search, and a sixth activist was interrogated at the Bandra police station on Friday before being released in the evening.
Pooja stated that persons in plainclothes claiming to be police officers arrived at Harshada’s residence at 3 pm. According to Pooja, the police made a list of things found at the residence and eventually filed a panchnama, a legal document recording observations, findings, and evidence collected during searches.
The Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine stated that the police's action demonstrates an 'all-out assault on our democratic rights and civil liberties', and demanded action against the 'illegal actions' by the police. They also claim this incident is a blatant violation of an individual’s right to privacy.
Two deputy police commissioners did not respond to Scroll ’s request for comment. Ravindra Salunkhe, a senior police inspector in Bandra, said that he was not aware of the details of the incident. This story will be updated if we receive a comment.
Source:
Scroll.in
