BENGALURU: In defense of the right to freedom of assembly, the coalition Horaatada Hakkigagi Janandolana (Campaign for the Right to Protest) has launched a signature campaign to challenge a contentious police order that confines protests to Freedom Park. The campaign, aiming to collect public support, views the order as a violation of constitutional rights in Bengaluru.
On September 8, coalition members engaged with commuters across the city’s bus and metro systems to highlight the restriction and gather signatures for an open letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. They emphasized the importance of broader protest rights, particularly in light of the upcoming International Day of Democracy celebrations hosted by the Karnataka government.
The coalition argues that restricting protests undermines the essence of democracy. Members traveled extensively, interacting with passengers on both metro lines and at the Majestic bus stand, collecting 451 signatures from concerned Bengaluru residents.
Signatories voiced strong opposition to the restriction. One commuter highlighted the importance of national solidarity in demanding justice, citing recent protests in Kolkata. A driver emphasized the need for the right to protest against unfair wage practices, while a college student stressed the importance of addressing university issues through protests. Another commuter argued for the right to protest against any government, regardless of its political affiliation.
The coalition, comprising over 40 civil society groups, will continue its advocacy until September 15. In addition to in-person outreach, the campaign will run a social media drive to bolster support and spread awareness.
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