'Not a suitable venue': Police deny permission to hold anti-CAA protest at Nehru Maidan

Mangaluru: The city police on Thursday thanked the Muslim Central Committee for postponing the proposed protest meeting against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) at Nehru Maidan on January 4.

Following an application by the Muslim Central Committee Dakshina Kannada and Udupi district seeking permission to stage the proposed protest, the police had sent it for an assessment of law and order/ Traffic to field units which after due consultation of all stakeholders submitted a report.

Based on the findings of the report, the police denied permission for the protest to be held at Nehru Maidan.

In a press note, the police said that as per the findings of the report, Nehru Maidan was not suitable for being considered as a venue for protest for massive gatherings for following reasons.

1. The roads surrounding the Nehru Maidan especially clock tower to AB Shetty circle is witnessing massive civil works of Smart City Project with only one way available for traffic, other lane has been deeply dug and poses the threat to public life if heavy gathering gets mobilised.

2. There are several hospitals in the close vicinity, choking of traffic in this area may prevent essential and emergency vehicles from plying and may severely impede ambulance services and supply of medicines.

3. Just about 100 meters from Nehru Maidan, on Old Kent Road chief office of fire and emergency services is located and any disruption of traffic and choking of the roads may severely disrupt these highly essential services.

“The above mentioned issues and other connected facts were communicated to the applicant, president of Muslim Central Committee and an appeal was made to them that permission may be considered if they provide an alternative proposal of venue.

“It is learnt that Muslim Central Committee has postponed the proposed protest. Mangaluru city police thanks Muslim Central Committee and seeks co-operation from all concerned in maintenance of law and order,” stated the press release.