Indians, students protest Maracana's privatization

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — About 500 people, including Indians and students, protested Thursday against a privatization of Maracana Stadium that will lead to the demolition of a nearby museum and a public school.

The protest came at a public hearing organized by the local government to listen to the public's concerns. Local media said the protesters booed authorities and showed banners against the project.

An indigenous museum, the school and some athletics facilities near the Maracana are set to be demolished as part of the renovation of the stadium that is due to host the finals of next year's Confederations Cup and the 2014 World Cup.

Government officials claim the museum isn't used anymore and that all the buildings need to be removed to guarantee the stadium's modernization.