Conditions imposed on Free Kashmir protest

The Metropolitan Police has imposed conditions upon marches and rallies being planned by a number of pro-Kashmiri protest groups, scheduled to take place in London on Sunday, 27 October. The Met is liaising closely with the protest organisers and the High Commission of India to prepare for the policing operation. The Met will take all necessary steps to ensure the security and integrity of the High Commission of India and the safety of those who work there or visit on the day. DAC Matt Twist, the Gold Commander in charge of the policing operation, said: “Hundreds of protests take place each year in London, representing many different causes and views. We understand that this is a significant anniversary date for those protesting, and also recognise this falls on the important Hindu festival of Diwali. My intention on the day will be to balance the rights of those protesting with those who may be affected by it. We will take all necessary steps to prevent crime and disorder. “Those attending the demonstrations can expect to see a significant police presence. Taking into account the anticipated number of protestors, and in order to prevent serious disruption, we have imposed pre-event conditions on the Free Kashmir protest under Sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act. The assembly and march must start in Parliament Street, process along Whitehall and conclude in Trafalgar Square. These are very iconic London locations, allowing good visibility of the protest, but will avoid the serious disruption that would be caused if roads closer to the High Commission became blocked.” Notice under Section 12 Public Order Act 1986: In order to prevent serious disruption to the community, the following conditions have been placed upon this procession. Any procession on Sunday, 27 October that is associated with the Muslim Action Forum, World Muslim Federation, Pakistan Patriotic Front, Overseas Pakistan Welfare Council, Jammu Kashmir National Awami Party, the PTi AJK or any other Pro Kashmiri Groups must; – Start at Parliament Street (see map A) – The procession must not commence before 14:00 – The route of the procession must follow the following route: o Parliament Street o Whitehall o Trafalgar Square Failure to adhere to these conditions may lead to arrest and prosecution. The conditions may be subject to change by the senior officer present – if in doubt please consult a police officer. Notice under Section 14 Public Order Act 1986: In order to prevent serious disruption to the community, the following conditions have been placed upon this assembly. Any static assembly that is held in London on Sunday, 27 October that is associated with the Muslim Action Forum, World Muslim Federation, Pakistan Patriotic Front, Overseas Pakistan Welfare Council, Jammu Kashmir National Awami Party, the PTi AJK or any other pro-Kashmiri group, must; 1. Preceding any Procession must be located in Parliament Street (see map 1) 2. Following any Procession must be located in Trafalgar Square (see map 2) Failure to adhere to these conditions may lead to arrest and prosecution. The conditions may be subject to change by the senior officer present – if in doubt please consult a police officer.