Tue Dec 17 16:31:22 UTC 2024: **Bombay High Court Allows AIMIM Procession, Criticizes Police Over “Law and Order” Concerns**
MUMBAI, December 18, 2024 – The Bombay High Court has granted permission for the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) to hold a procession in Baramati, Pune on December 24th. The procession will commemorate Constitution Day and celebrate the birth anniversaries of Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad and Tipu Sultan.
The court’s decision came after Pune police informed the bench that permission had been granted, subject to conditions stipulated under section 149 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), including the prohibition of stopping near religious places. While acknowledging the right to hold processions, the judges criticized the police’s frequent reliance on potential law and order issues. The court stated that the police should proactively manage events to prevent disruptions rather than preemptively denying permits.
The AIMIM had initially sought permission for the procession on November 26th but was denied by the Pune Rural Police, who suggested a private event instead. The subsequent petition challenged this denial. The court also addressed a related issue concerning permission for banners and arches, directing the police to decide on this application within 24 hours. While upholding the need to follow regulations regarding such displays, the court emphasized that the right to hold the procession itself remained unaffected.
First Piper 