A group of three pro-democracy student leaders from Hong Kong, protesting against Beijing's decision to vet candidates in 2017 elections, have been stopped from boarding a plane to Beijing, a report said.
The three demonstrators said that they wanted to meet China's leaders directly because the Hong Kong government has said that it is "powerless" to offer them any "concessions." However, they were told that their travel permits were invalid, reported the BBC.
The group was greeted at the airport by other protesters unfurling yellow umbrellas, a symbol of Hong Kong's democracy movement.
They were led by Alex Chow, head of the Hong Kong Federation of Students, which has played a key role in mobilising the demonstrations.
Protesters have occupied the streets of Hong Kong since late September to demand completely free elections.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
