Kochi police have registered a case against journalist Siddique Kappan and 10 others following a solidarity meeting held Saturday evening to protest the arrest of fellow journalist Rejaz M. Sheeba Sydeek. The event at Vanchi Square, near Kerala High Court, was organized by human rights groups and included activists from the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and Welfare Party of India.
According to Muslim Mirror, Police said the gathering became unlawful as it was held without mandatory approvals and caused obstruction to pedestrians and traffic. Two attendees, Dr. Hari and Shaneer, were taken into custody after refusing to disperse but were later released on bail. Others named include Neeharika Pradaush, Pramod Puzhangara, Ambika, and C.P. Rasheed.
Assistant Commissioner Sibi Tom stated that while the Kochi Corporation had cleared the event itself, police permission for sound equipment use was missing. Most participants left peacefully, but two allegedly resisted police efforts, with one accused of pushing a sub-inspector.
The protest was in response to Rejaz M. Sheeba Sydeek’s arrest in Nagpur under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) over social media posts critical of “Operation Sindoor.” Rights groups argue that the charges are excessive and form part of a larger crackdown on independent journalism.
Siddique Kappan, who was arrested in 2020 while reporting on the Hathras case, has drawn attention from press freedom advocates. Activists say charging journalists for peaceful protests undermines democratic freedoms. Kochi police maintain their actions were strictly law enforcement without political or professional bias.
This case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and media activists over freedom of expression and lawful assembly in Kerala. Further developments are awaited as the investigation continues.
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