Minors detained in southwest India for raising Palestinian flag
In southwest India, Karnataka Police detained four minors for allegedly raising a Palestinian flag while riding a motorcycle in Chikkamagaluru district, according to police sources.
The minors are currently being questioned about how they obtained the flag and whether they acted independently or under instructions.
A special investigation team by the police has been formed to thoroughly probe the incident, as authorities are treating the matter with the highest level of seriousness.
The police remain on high alert ahead of the Eid Milad festival procession, which will pass through key routes in the city.
A case has been registered at the Chikkamagaluru City Police Station, and video footage of the incident has prompted swift action, especially given the heightened tensions in the state following violence during the Ganesh Visarjan procession in Nagamangala.
India maintained a sympathetic stance towards the “Palestinian cause,” largely driven by its anti-colonial sentiment. This position has changed in recent times as Delhi continue to strengthen ties with Israel.
In 2016, India abstained from a UN vote to bring Israel before the International Criminal Court for its alleged war crimes during the 2014 Gaza crisis. In 2017, Modi became the first Indian leader to visit Israel.
