Majid Freeman imprisoned by Politicised Hindutva Riots Trial

Northampton – The trial and sentencing of Majid Freeman, stemming from the Hindutva-inspired riots in Leicester in September 2022, serves as a clear example of a politicised judiciary and police force, determined to silence one of the UK's most prominent pro-Palestine Muslim activists. District Judge Amar Mehta, who maintained a consistently unfavourable stance towards Freeman throughout the proceedings, presided over this case, marking the end of an almost two-year ordeal. 

In July, Majid Freeman was arrested under terrorism powers for his advocacy for Gaza, marking the first in a series of high-profile arrests and trials. Other notable figures targeted since include Palestine Action co-founder Richard Barnard, and independent pro-Palestine journalists Richard Medhurst and Sarah Wilkinson.

Since the 2022 Hindutva-inspired riots in Leicester, ongoing revelations have highlighted the failures of Leicestershire Police, particularly Chief Constable Rob Nixon, in managing the situation. The force allowed paramilitary-style marches by Hindutva agitators in Muslim neighbourhoods in Leicester, directly causing the community tensions.

The trial of Majid Freeman, an outspoken advocate for justice and a significant figure in local politics, is inherently political. At its core, this case is about silencing Freeman’s activism. Whether exposing police incompetence, challenging former Labour MP for Leicester South John Ashworth, or documenting the livestreamed genocide in Gaza and the UK government’s complicity, Freeman has consistently stood for justice.

Majid Freeman, an international aid worker and anti-genocide campaigner, was sentenced today to 22 weeks in prison after being convicted of a Section 4 Public Order offence. The one-day trial took place on June 19, 2024, at Northampton Magistrates Court.

In a brief statement submitted by Majid Freeman, he shared:

“I should have never stood trial for defending the Leicester community. 

Back in September 2022, Leicester witnessed a protracted period of religious tensions between Muslim and Hindu communities. The violent and hateful hindutva ideology lay at the heart of the unrest. Despite provocations from Hindu protestors, I consistently called for calm and was involved in talks with the police, local councillors and community leaders from across Leicester to de-escalate tensions. The evidence presented at my trial demonstrated this fact. 

I stood on trial because Leicestershire Police failed in their duty to keep the peace. Instead of reflecting on their pitiful role during the unrest, Leicestershire Police have decided to pursue me, someone they would often turn to for support. 

Thank you to all those who stood alongside me and supported me. 

Moving forward, I and my lawyers will be considering my grounds for an appeal.”