NEW DELHI, October 2: Student groups, activists and political workers gathered around Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Friday to protest over the ongoing electoral-roll revision controversy and demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Police detained protesters as authorities imposed security restrictions across parts of central Delhi.
Protesters Demand CEC’s Resignation
The demonstration was called by groups including AISA, SFI, NSUI and other organisations that have criticised the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
Protesters alleged irregularities and large-scale deletion of eligible voters. The Election Commission has rejected allegations of political bias and says the revision is intended to remove duplicate, deceased and otherwise ineligible entries.
More Than 500 Protesters Detained
Police said around 500 protesters were detained from areas in and around Jantar Mantar.
Those detained included AAP leaders and activists from several student organisations. Authorities had earlier said permission had not been granted for the planned demonstration.
Security Tightened Around Jantar Mantar
Delhi Police deployed additional personnel and Central Armed Police Forces around Jantar Mantar and other sensitive locations.
Barricades were installed at key entry points, while prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita were in force in parts of New Delhi district.
11 Metro Stations Face Entry-Exit Restrictions
Delhi Metro restricted entry and exit at 11 stations, including Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, New Delhi and INA.
Interchange facilities remained available at selected stations despite the restrictions.
Traffic Restrictions Announced in Central Delhi
Traffic diversions and regulated movement were introduced around Jantar Mantar, Connaught Place, Parliament Street, Tolstoy Marg and adjoining areas.
Commuters were advised to avoid affected routes and plan their journeys in advance.
Electoral-Roll Revision Remains at Centre of Dispute
The controversy centres on a nationwide voter-verification exercise that has faced criticism from opposition parties and activist groups over exclusions from draft electoral rolls.
The Election Commission says voters whose names are missing can seek inclusion or appeal decisions, while critics argue that the process has created difficulties for eligible voters.
Election Commission Defends Process
The Commission has said its voter-roll revision decisions are lawful and that differences of opinion during internal deliberations are normal.
It has also announced procedural changes, including document collection through home visits in some cases and extended verification timelines in certain states.
Protests Over Electoral Issues Set to Continue
Friday’s demonstration is part of a wider series of protests over electoral-roll revisions and the functioning of the Election Commission.
Congress-led opposition parties have separately announced demonstrations beginning October 6, while other groups are also planning protests in different cities.
Source – Reuters / The Indian Express / The New Indian Express
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