Activist Arrested in Maharashtra Over Criticism of Minister Chandrakant Patil

In a move that has drawn attention from civil society groups, an activist was taken into custody in Maharashtra on Thursday. The individual, whose name was not disclosed by authorities, reportedly made remarks criticizing Minister Chandrakant Patil during a public gathering. Police said the detention was carried out under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, citing the need to maintain public order. The incident has sparked debate over freedom of expression and the use of law to curb dissent, with several rights groups calling for a review of the arrest.