 The eighth batch of over 200 protesters took part in the satyagraha for
the release of jailed human rights and health activist Dr Binayak Sen ,
in Raipur today. The programme began with protestors congregating at
Budha Talab and holding a public meeting there. The protestors marched
through the streets of Raipur and later 185 of them courted arrest.
 The arrest occurred after the satyagrahis were detained at Subhash Stadium by the Chhattisgarh authorities, following peaceful non-violent protest. They were all later released.
The satyagrahis who courted arrest included among others Medha Patkar of the Narmada Bachao Andolan and National Alliance of People's Movements, Himanshu of the Vanvasi Chetna Ashram, Tukaram of the Jagrit Adivasi Dalit Sangathan, Noorjahan of the Ghar Bachao Ghar Banao Andolan and Lakhan of the CMM (Karyakartha Committee).
The next satyagraha will be held on 14 May, the second annivesary of Dr Sen's arrest, when hundreds of people from around the country are expected to participate. A cultural evening of protest songs, plays and poetry is also planned for 13th May. |
