Journalist Siddique Kappan, 10 others booked after anti-UAPA protest

The Ernakulam Central police on Saturday booked journalist Siddique Kappan and 10 others on charges of unlawful assembly after they allegedly organised a protest meet in solidarity with Kochi-based journalist Rejaz B. Sheeba Sydeek, who was booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) by the Nagpur police in May for reportedly criticising Operation Sindoor. The event took place at Vanchi Square near the Kerala High Court.

Apart from Kappan, the first information report (FIR) names Neeharika Pradaush, Pramod Puzhangara, Ambika, C.P. Rasheed, Sajid Khalid, Baburaj Bhagavathy, V.M. Faisal, Mrudhula Bhavani, Dr. Hari, and Shaneer as accused.

The FIR was registered under Sections 189 (2), 190, and 285 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, apart from the Kerala Police Act Sections 118 (e) and 117 (e).

The charges include unlawful assembly, obstructing a public way, and the use of a loudspeaker without permission. According to the FIR, two of the protesters argued with Sub Inspector Anoop C., and he lost the name plate on his uniform during the commotion.