Peoples Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) Maharashtra has condemned the arrest of two young Mumbai activists, Ruchir and Supreeth by the Mankhurd Police last night, in connection with a protest against the Israeli government’s ongoing violent attacks impacting civilians in Palestine, in line with similar protests taking place in multiple locations globally and in the country.

In a statement, PUCL said Ruchir has complained of being beaten by the police after being picked up from the protest site and also at the police station. When Supreeth went to the police station to secure his release, he was also arrested. Among other sections applied for violating prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 (“CrPC”) and section 37 of the Maharashtra Police Act, it appears that they have also been charged with offences under sections 353 and 332 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (“IPC”), the statement said.