Protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar escalated in Delhi on Sunday, with demonstrators attempting to breach police barricades during separate marches towards Jantar Mantar. These demonstrations, which mark the third consecutive day of protests, have drawn a diverse group including student activists, political workers, and civil society members, all opposing the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

According to police reports, approximately 110 individuals were detained during the protests, while 15 police personnel sustained injuries during altercations with protestors. The collective frustration stems from concerns regarding the integrity and implementation of the electoral roll revision.

AISA and AAP Workers Detained

The All India Students’ Association (AISA) orchestrated one of the principal marches on Sunday, gathering near Andhra Bhawan Circle before attempting to advance towards Jantar Mantar. Activists reported that AISA national president Neha Bora was taken into custody after the group tried to surpass police barricades. AISA members alleged that she was transported in an unmarked vehicle; however, Delhi Police confirmed her detention. Bora was released later in the day.

Additionally, a separate demonstration was organised by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers at India Gate. Among those detained were Delhi AAP chief Saurabh Bharadwaj and party MLA Sanjeev Jha, with police confirming that at least 25 AAP members were apprehended. Bharadwaj alleged that he faced rough treatment during his detention, although this claim has yet to be independently verified.

Violence erupted as tensions escalated, leading protesters to confront barricades set up on the roads leading to Jantar Mantar. In response to the anticipated disturbances, police mobilised an extensive security presence throughout central Delhi, deploying around 5,000 personnel, including members of the Rapid Action Force.

Security Measures and Legal Repercussions

Comprehensive security measures, including CCTV monitoring and drone surveillance, were established alongside multiple layers of barricading to manage the protests. The police registered three First Information Reports (FIRs) linked to the now-infamous demonstrations on Friday. These FIRs concern alleged violations of prohibitory orders instituted under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.

Two FIRs were lodged at the Parliament Street police station, while the third was filed at the Connaught Place police station, reflecting the authorities’ approach to managing the protest movements.

The protests were further complicated by allegations of misconduct involving three women journalists, who claimed to have faced sexual harassment by Delhi Police personnel while covering a demonstration at Jantar Mantar on Saturday. Delhi Police has transferred these complaints to its Crime Branch for a thorough investigation, which will include recording statements and evaluating related evidence. The Press Council of India has raised concerns regarding the safety of journalists during such coverage.

Supreme Court Set to Review Allegations Against CEC

As protests continue to highlight issues regarding electoral processes, the matter is anticipated to reach the legal domain. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear pleas on Monday, which focus on allegations that decisions related to the Special Intensive Revision were made without necessary authorisations or consultations within the Election Commission.

The scheduled hearings underscore the significance of the ongoing protests in drawing attention to the functioning of the Election Commission as well as the processes involved in revising electoral rolls. In this climate, both the public and the judiciary are focusing on the implications of these actions on democratic governance in India.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share