Students blocking higher education institutions in Belgrade have presented their fifth demand, in which they call for a thorough investigation by the competent authorities to determine all circumstances and responsibilities related to the incident that caused fear and panic on March 15 along Kralja Milana Street, during a peaceful protest and 15 minutes of silence in memory of those tragically killed in Novi Sad.
The statement notes that on March 15, 2025, during a peaceful protest and tribute to the victims in Novi Sad, an unidentified occurrence caused fear and panic among citizens.
“Given the seriousness of this event and its potential security implications, and in accordance with the legal obligations of the competent authorities in the field of maintaining public order, peace, and citizen safety, we demand a detailed investigation and determination of all relevant circumstances, including:
Identification of the technology used and the location from which the unidentified occurrence was triggered;
Determination of the legal basis and purpose of the application of the unidentified technology, as well as the justification and legitimacy of its use on March 15, 2025;
Identification of those who ordered and executed the action that led to the unidentified occurrence, and the initiation of appropriate proceedings in accordance with the law, without delay;
The manner in which the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other competent bodies will prevent unjustified and unwarranted use of unidentified technology as a means of coercion during peaceful gatherings of citizens in the future.
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This demand, as stated, stems from the need to protect the right of citizens to peaceful assembly, which is clearly defined by the Constitution of the Republic of Serbia and the Law on Public Assembly.
“The rights to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression are among the fundamental pillars of a democratic society. It is evident that this was an act of intimidation of citizens and a violation of basic human rights,” the statement emphasizes.
The statement highlights that, according to the Law on Public Prosecution, holders of prosecutorial office are expected to perform their function professionally, conscientiously, impartially, fairly, and without undue delay, while respecting the independence of the public prosecution.
“According to the Law on Police, members of the Ministry of Internal Affairs are expected to behave professionally, act impartially and depoliticized, and adhere to legal regulations.
Establishing the facts and specific responsibility for the use of unidentified technology as a means of coercion during the peaceful tribute to the victims in Novi Sad is a key step toward ensuring the protection of human rights and preventing similar occurrences in the future,” the statement concludes.
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Source: N1, Foto: M.M. / ATAImages