KOCHI: The Ernakulam Central Police have registered a case against 12 Muslim Youth League leaders in connection with a rally that allegedly obstructed traffic in Kochi on Sunday.
Those named in the FIR include state president Sayyid Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal, general secretary P K Firoz and MLA Fathima Thahiliya. Around 2,000 people who participated in the rally have also been included as identifiable accused, according to reports.
The rally was organised as part of the Muslim Youth League's state conference. It began at Goshree Junction in Bolgatty around 4 pm and proceeded towards Marine Drive, reaching its destination around 5.30 pm.
According to the FIR, the procession obstructed the movement of vehicles and pedestrians along Shanmukham Road near High Court Junction.
The other leaders named in the case include treasurer P Ismayil, vice-presidents Mujeeb Kaderi, Faisal Bafaqui Thangal, Ashraf Edaneer and K A Mahin, and state secretaries C K Muhammadali, advocate Naseer Karyara, Gafoor Kolkkalathil and TPM Jishan.
The case has been registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita relating to unlawful assembly, rioting and obstruction of public roads. Provisions of the Kerala Public Ways Act have also been invoked.
Police had announced traffic restrictions and diversions in the city ahead of the rally. The procession was permitted along a designated route, but the FIR alleges that it obstructed traffic movement.
With input from media reports.