Mumbai Police Use Surveillance To Deter Youth Protests

Mumbai Police are employing surveillance tactics, including home visits and requests for location data, to deter young individuals from participating in protests within the city. At least 1,400 people have been taken into temporary custody in connection with various demonstrations since July 16.

Several young activists have reported intimidatory tactics by the police, such as serving notices, making phone calls, and conducting personal visits, often before they could reach protest sites. Student Preeti Kamble stated she was detained and later received a notice, followed by police visits to her residence. Writer Rohan Shelar and student Nandini Gautam have also described similar experiences, including alleged physical contact and being asked to share live GPS locations.

Police officials cite unlawful assembly and disobedience of prohibitory orders as reasons for their actions. A senior official, speaking anonymously, indicated that protests lacking permission led to authorities asking individuals to stay home or share their location data. Some protesters have also received notices via WhatsApp.

These measures have raised concerns among civil society and human rights advocates, viewing them as an attempt to suppress dissent. A spokesperson for the city's police department did not respond to requests for comment. The situation has sparked debate regarding the use of police powers and freedom of speech in India.