New Delhi: The Delhi Police has registered at least three cases in connection with Friday’s protests near Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, with police citing violations of prohibitory orders and restrictions imposed on the gathering.
The protests were organised by opposition parties, student organisations and civil society groups demanding Kumar’s resignation over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Election Commission has rejected the allegations surrounding the revision exercise.
Over 500 Protesters Detained In Delhi
Delhi Police detained hundreds of protesters who attempted to gather at Jantar Mantar and nearby areas on Friday. Police officials put the number at around 550, while other reports said more than 700 people were detained during the day.
Among those detained were AAP Delhi chief Saurabh Bharadwaj, former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, AISA national president Neha Bora and several activists and political workers. Those detained were later released, according to police.
Police Had Denied Permission For Protest
The Delhi Police had earlier refused permission for the October 2 demonstration at Jantar Mantar, citing security concerns and prohibitory orders in the area. Security was tightened across Central Delhi, with barricades placed around Jantar Mantar and adjoining areas.
Police also said that restrictions were already in force and that gatherings of more than four people were prohibited in the area.
Protests Linked To SIR Electoral Roll Revision
The demonstration was linked to the ongoing political controversy over the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
Opposition parties and civil society groups have alleged irregularities in the exercise and demanded accountability from CEC Gyanesh Kumar. The Election Commission, however, has maintained that decisions related to the SIR exercise were taken unanimously by the three-member poll panel.
The latest police cases come amid continued political and public mobilisation over the SIR issue, with further protests also being announced by some groups.