Mumbai, June 18, 2025 :-
The Mumbai Police have denied permission to the India-Palestine Solidarity Forum and several political organizations seeking to hold a rally at Azad Maidan on Wednesday to protest Israel’s ongoing siege of Gaza.
The decision follows objections from certain Hindu groups, who warned of launching counter-protests if the rally were to proceed. In response, police officials held meetings with both groups on Tuesday and concluded that the risk of communal tension was too high.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone I), Dr. Pravin Mundhe, stated, “No permissions have been granted for any gathering at Azad Maidan.” He emphasized that the decision was made in the interest of maintaining law and order in the city.
Despite the official denial, rally organizers have indicated that they will proceed with a symbolic gathering in smaller numbers at a nearby trade union office to express solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The development highlights the growing tension around global issues being played out in local public spaces, raising fresh questions about the balance between free expression and civic security in India’s financial capital.
