**Protest Demands Release of Activists, Court Releases “Thugs”**
A group of protesters gathered in front of the courthouse in Novi Sad to demand the release of 12 students and activists who have been in jail for over 40 days. The protesters claim that these individuals are being politically persecuted.
The arrested group includes 5 activists from the opposition Movement of Free Citizens (PSG) and a student from the STAV organization. They were charged with endangering constitutional order and calling for the violent overthrow of authorities after a secret recording of their conversation was published by pro-regime media. The recording showed them preparing for a mass protest in Belgrade.
The protesters believe that the arrests are an attempt to silence the opposition and suppress free speech. They claim that the government is using these charges to intimidate and punish those who speak out against its policies.
In a separate incident, the Higher Court in Novi Sad released three young men who were arrested for assaulting people during a tribute event in the city. The court ruled that they would be released pending trial with a warning that they would return to jail if they repeated the crime. This decision has been met with criticism from some quarters, who see it as lenient.
**Commentary and Analysis**
The protest outside the Novi Sad courthouse highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and the opposition in Serbia. The arrests of the 12 students and activists are seen by many as an attempt to silence dissenting voices and suppress free speech. This move has been met with widespread criticism, with many viewing it as a politically motivated action.
The release of the three young men who assaulted people during the tribute event also raises questions about justice in Serbia. While some may see this decision as lenient, others argue that it is a necessary step towards rehabilitation and restorative justice.
**What’s Next?**
As the protests continue to demand the release of the 12 students and activists, it remains to be seen how the government will respond. Will they cave to pressure and release those arrested, or will they maintain their stance? The situation in Serbia is complex and multifaceted, with many competing interests at play.
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