NSW Police Review Protester Charges After PARD Strike-Down

New South Wales Police Review Charges After Court Strikes Down Protest Law

The New South Wales Police are reassessing charges against protesters following the states highest court deeming a key law restricting public gatherings unconstitutional. The law, known as the Public Assembly Restriction Declaration (PARD), was used during a chaotic February protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzogs visit to Sydney, which resulted in at least twenty-five arrests.

Premier Chris Minns is urging protesters to take responsibility for their actions amidst what he describes as two years of hateful rhetoric. He emphasizes that most people want police to maintain safety during disruptions. The courts decision to invalidate the law based on the argument that social harmony is not a valid reason to limit free speech has sparked controversy.

Commissioner Mal Lanyon announced that the police will review every charge under PARD, the Major Events Act, and the Crimes Act, with potential additional arrests. A Law Enforcement Conduct Commission investigation into police tactics is scheduled for public hearings later this year, and the government is considering a ban on the phrase globalize the Intifada.

This situation underscores the delicate balance between protest rights and public safety in Australia, and the outcome of these reviews will be closely monitored.

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