New Delhi, October 6, 2026: Hundreds of police personnel were deployed across central Delhi on Tuesday as opposition parties prepared for a protest march demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protest is linked to the controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and allegations that the process has unfairly affected eligible voters.
Heavy Security in Central Delhi
Security was tightened around key areas in central Delhi ahead of the planned opposition march.
Barricades were placed on several routes, while police personnel were deployed near Parliament and the Election Commission of India office. Authorities also issued traffic advisories and restricted access to some roads.
Opposition Demands CEC’s Resignation
Opposition parties have intensified their demand for Gyanesh Kumar to step down as Chief Election Commissioner.
They allege that changes made during the voter-list revision exercise could result in legitimate voters being removed from electoral rolls and have questioned the Election Commission’s impartiality.
March Planned Towards Election Commission Office
Opposition leaders and supporters planned to march from the Parliament area towards the Election Commission headquarters.
The demonstration is part of a broader series of protests that have been growing in Delhi and other cities over the past several days.
Election Commission Rejects Allegations
The Election Commission has rejected allegations of wrongdoing in the voter-list revision process.
It has maintained that the revision is intended to improve the accuracy of electoral rolls and remove invalid or duplicate entries. The BJP has also denied opposition claims that the process is designed to politically benefit the ruling party.
Supreme Court Also Examining the Issue
The controversy has now reached the Supreme Court.
The court is examining petitions related to the conduct of the Election Commission and changes connected with voter registration. Chief Justice Surya Kant has also clarified that the Supreme Court did not approve modifications to Form 6, the form used for new voter registration.
Protests Intensify Across India
The Delhi march follows demonstrations in Delhi and Mumbai demanding the CEC’s resignation.
Thousands of opposition supporters and youth activists have participated in protests questioning the SIR exercise and alleged voter deletions.
Police-Protester Tensions Add to Controversy
The protests have also triggered separate allegations against Delhi Police.
Three women journalists covering an earlier anti-CEC protest alleged sexual harassment by police officers during detention. Delhi Police said the complaints have been referred to the Crime Branch, which is examining CCTV footage and other evidence.
Political Battle Over Electoral Rolls Deepens
The dispute over the SIR has become a major political flashpoint, with opposition parties framing it as an issue of voting rights and electoral transparency.
With protests continuing and the Supreme Court examining related allegations, the controversy is expected to remain at the centre of national political debate.
Source – Reuters, The Indian Express
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