The battle for electoral integrity has escalated into a confrontation between citizens and the State.
On October 10, the Gen Z-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) called for ‘Chalo Jantar Mantar’, demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation over alleged voter-list manipulation through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The Election Commission and BJP denied the allegations.
Delhi witnessed unprecedented security measures, with over 35,000 police and paramilitary personnel deployed, 45 metro stations shut, train services curtailed, internet disrupted in parts, and 40 checkpoints established.
CJP leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das were reportedly detained, along with influencer Dhruv Rathee. Between 5,000 and 7,000 protesters, including four former Chief Ministers, political leaders, lawyers, journalists and students, were reportedly detained.
The UN Human Rights Office expressed concern over mass detentions and called for the unconditional release of those arbitrarily held. The Government termed this unwarranted interference.
When peaceful protests face such restrictions, are we witnessing democracy’s decline into a police state?
EVERETTE ASSIS TELLES, Margao
