London , 10 August (H.S.): In a major police operation, 474 people were arrested during a demonstration in Parliament Square, Westminster, supporting the proscribed group Palestine Action. Of those arrested, 466 were charged with supporting the banned organization, outlawed earlier this year under the UK’s Terrorism Act 2000—a move making support or membership a criminal offense punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

The protest, organized by Defend Our Juries, saw hundreds of participants unveiling signs reading, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” Arrests began after protesters displayed their placards, with police moving methodically through the seated crowd, carrying away some individuals who refused to leave. Among those arrested was an 89-year-old woman.

This marks the Metropolitan Police’s largest single-day arrest operation in ten years. While the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the group’s ban, citing serious attacks and ongoing security risks, human rights groups raised concerns. Amnesty International criticized the mass arrests as “disproportionate” and a threat to freedom of expression.

Supporters argued that peaceful protest is a vital democratic right, while police stated that those arrested were bailed if their details were confirmed and others taken into custody. Organizers estimate more than 1,000 participated, although police dispute that figure.

The protest follows a series of nationwide arrests for similar offenses since the group’s ban, and legal challenges to the proscription are expected. Critics warn the crackdown signals increased authoritarianism and risks suppressing legitimate dissent amidst growing tensions over UK government policies towards Palestine.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar