Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 saw protests in Delhi and Mumbai as political groups, student organisations and activists demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
In Delhi, more than 700 protesters were detained by the police during demonstrations around Jantar Mantar, according to police officials. The protesters included Aam Aadmi Party leaders and members of student organisations such as AISA, SFI and NSUI. Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, AAP leaders Saurabh Bharadwaj, Sanjeev Jha and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh were among those reportedy detained by the police.
The protesters are demanding Kumar’s resignation over what they allege are irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. They have raised concerns about changes in voter lists and the functioning of the Election Commission. The Election Commission and authorities have faced criticism over the issue, while the claims made by protesters remain contested.
Security was tightened around Jantar Mantar, with restrictions imposed in the area. Several Delhi Metro stations were also affected, while internet services were reportedly suspended around the protest site.
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Meanwhile, Mumbai also witnessed heightened security ahead of a protest called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by founder Abhijeet Dipke. The group had planned a protest at Shivaji Park demanding Kumar’s resignation and changes in the electoral-roll revision process. Mumbai Police had denied permission for the protest, citing concerns including traffic, noise and movement of emergency vehicles. Despite this, CJP announced a “Jail Bharo Andolan” for October 2.
Ahead of the protest, Dipke was briefly detained by Mumbai Police at Marine Drive. According to reports, he had arrived at the promenade with supporters carrying placards. A police team approached him and took him to the Marine Drive police station in a police van. He was later released.
At Shivaji Park, police put up barricades and increased security around the ground. Anti-riot personnel, Quick Response Teams and dog squads were also kept on alert. Security was also increased at Dadar railway station, which is close to Shivaji Park.
The CJP said it would go ahead with its protest despite the lack of police permission. Local residents have also raised concerns about the possible disturbance caused by the gathering. With protests taking place in both cities, October 2 has turned into a day of heightened political activity, with demonstrators continuing to raise questions about electoral rolls, the Election Commission and the conduct of the electoral process.