During the cricket World Cup final in Ahmedabad in India, a protester supporting Palestine breached security and briefly halted play to hug Indian batter Virat Kohli. But what happened to him?
Wearing a Palestinian flag-coloured face mask and a T-shirt with 'Stop Bombing Palestine', the protester conveyed a global message. Security promptly removed him, and the match between unbeaten host India and Australia quickly resumed.
The high-stakes final, attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, showcased India's quest for a third World Cup title.
The incident occurred amid heightened tensions between Israel and Hamas, with Israel pledging to dismantle the group after attacks on October 7.
The conflict, according to Israeli officials, resulted in about 1,200 casualties and 240 people taken hostage.
What happened to pro-Palestinian protester?
The pro-Palestinian protester pitch invader is an Australian citizen.
The guy is from Australia pic.twitter.com/vBsqa7Ni6Z
— iffi (@iffiViews) November 19, 2023
He was arrested by the police from the stadium. However, the police will take further action against him after considering legal options.
Meanwhile, an Indian lawyer and founder of Indian Civil Liberties Union, Anas Tiwari, has offered free legal aid to the pro-Palestinian protester.
"If this kid requires any legal assistance we'll provide it pro bono. If there is a fine we'll fund it someway or the other. The kids are alright.," he wrote in a quote post on X.
If this kid requires any legal assistance we'll provide it pro bono. If there is a fine we'll fund it someway or the other. The kids are alright. #FreePalestine #WorldcupFinal https://t.co/LyMkWIxKDP
— Anas Tanwir 🇵🇸 (@Vakeel_Sb) November 19, 2023
According to Anas, the protester can maximum be deported to his home country.
"No person who is arrested shall be detained in custody without being informed, as soon as may be, of the grounds for such arrest nor shall he be denied the right to consult, and to be defended by, a legal practitioner of his choice," he quoted a provision of Indian law.