Hundreds of thousands of pro-independence supporters rallied in the Catalan regional capital Barcelona on Saturday (21 October) demanding freedom for influential pro-independence activists Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart.<br /><br />Both have been jailed in Madrid and are being investigated for alleged sedition, a charge which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years.<br /><br />The Catalan government has accused Madrid of taking political prisoners.<br /><br />The president of Catalonia has refused to renounce independence, citing an overwhelming vote in favour of secession.<br />
