**Public Defender Visits Citizens Arrested During Rally**
The Office of the Public Defender is visiting citizens who were arrested during a rally on Melikishvili Avenue. The arrests happened when police started stopping people who were taking part in the rally.
According to the Public Defender’s office, at 08:18 on November 19, 2024, when the police started arresting people, the rally was peaceful and followed the rules of freedom of assembly. However, there may have been cases where police treated citizens improperly or used excessive force.
**Concerns About Police Actions**
The Public Defender is concerned that the police did not respect the rights of journalists and protesters. They are calling on the Ministry of Internal Affairs to allow people to hold peaceful rallies without interference, to let journalists do their job, and to use arrest powers only when necessary.
**Investigation Needed**
The Public Defender also wants the Special Investigation Service to look into each case where a crime may have been committed against journalists or protesters. They want the public to be informed about these investigations.
**Office of the Public Defender’s Hotline**
The Office of the Public Defender has a hotline that people can call at any time if they feel their rights have been violated. The number is 1481 and it is available 24 hours a day.
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