It is truly shocking to see the way the Centre has allegedly attempted to suppress and intimidate protesters demonstrating against the current ECI chief, Gyanesh Kumar. Such actions raise serious questions about the state of democracy and the freedom of expression in the country.
The first question is: why is the government so keen to defend the Election Commission of India? The second, and equally important, question is: why does the leadership appear so apprehensive if there is nothing to hide?
Reports of roads, metro and train services being disrupted, internet services suspended, peaceful protesters and their leaders arrested or detained, and allegations of police misconduct, including molestation of women protesters and journalists, are deeply concerning.
Preventing citizens from exercising their democratic right to protest undermines constitutional freedoms. These developments create the disturbing impression of an unofficial emergency being imposed by the Central government. Democracy demands accountability, transparency and respect for dissent, not intimidation and suppression.
AWWIN MESQUITA, Colva
