A protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has been announced at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on October 2, with organisers raising allegations about irregularities in electoral rolls and the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.
The demonstration has been called by the All India Students’ Association (AISA), Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha and Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan.
Police Deny Permission
Delhi Police has denied permission for the proposed gathering and increased security across central Delhi. Police sources said around 3,000 to 4,000 people could attend, prompting the deployment of additional personnel and Central Armed Police Forces.
Barricades Put Up Around Jantar Mantar
Multiple layers of barricading have been installed around routes leading to Jantar Mantar, including areas around Tolstoy Marg, Janpath Road and Sansad Marg. Police said the arrangements were made to regulate movement and prevent an unauthorised gathering.
Organisers Demand Action Against CEC
The organisers are demanding the resignation or impeachment of Gyanesh Kumar, alleging problems with electoral rolls and the SIR process. They say the issue raises concerns about voters’ rights. These are allegations made by the organisers and are not established findings of wrongdoing.
Political and Student Groups Expected to Join
AAP leaders and workers, members of the Indian Youth Congress and student groups are expected to participate, according to police sources. Former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia has also called on people to join the gathering.
The protest comes amid wider demonstrations by opposition parties, student organisations and civil society groups over the functioning of the Election Commission and the SIR exercise. With police permission denied and heavy security deployed, the situation around Jantar Mantar and central Delhi remains closely monitored.