The protest was organised in solidarity with demonstrators demanding accountability from Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls. News reports confirmed Khan’s detention as police moved to prevent the gathering at the Mumbai venue.
Actor Shares Update From Police Van
Following his detention, Khan shared a selfie from inside a police van on Instagram, reportedly captioning it, “Apparently I’m going for a drive.” The post drew attention online as the actor became one of several public figures and activists caught up in police action surrounding the planned demonstrations in Delhi and Mumbai.
Police Cite Lack of Permission
Mumbai Police said the demonstration at August Kranti Maidan had not been authorised. Officials cited court directions restricting protests at the site and said demonstrations were permitted at Azad Maidan.
However, CJP supporters claimed they had emailed the police seeking permission but had not received a response. The competing accounts have raised questions about the arrangements for the planned gathering.
Protest Linked to CEC Accountability
The Mumbai demonstration was organised in support of the CJP’s planned protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, which sought Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The allegations against the Election Commission remain contested. Meanwhile, police action extended to several protesters and activists in both cities as authorities tightened security around the planned gatherings.
Detention Adds to Wider Protest Crackdown
Khan’s detention came amid reports of hundreds of people being detained in connection with the demonstrations. The developments have brought renewed attention to the balance between public-order restrictions and the right to peaceful assembly.
As the protests spread across cities, the debate over electoral accountability and the handling of public demonstrations continues.