The Delhi Police have implemented heightened security measures ahead of anticipated protests on October 10, responding to unrest concerning alleged irregularities in the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. These measures include the closure of metro stations and disruptions to travel routes, causing significant inconvenience for commuters.
The protests, organized by political entities such as the Cockroach Janta Party and student unions, began on October 2, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The controversy revolves around the deletion of over 130 million names from the voters’ list since 2025. Accusations of tampering and improper classifications have intensified calls for accountability, fueled by claims of manipulation of key registration documents like Form 6.
The Delhi Police have denied permission for the protest and taken proactive steps to control the movement of demonstrators. These include detaining student union members and activists, coordinating with cab services like Ola and Uber to restrict travel to Lutyens’ Delhi, and asking hotels to refrain from taking new reservations. The proactive closure of liquor stores further highlights the authorities’ commitment to maintaining public order, though these measures have sparked significant debate regarding civil liberties.
In the judicial arena, the Supreme Court has intervened to prevent a complete transportation shutdown, emphasizing that restrictions should be proportionate. The bench’s stance follows several appeals by senior advocates after the Delhi High Court’s refusal for an urgent hearing. The Apex Court has urged the provision of alternative protest sites to ensure peaceful demonstrations [source].
Meanwhile, a contentious mobile internet shutdown has been ordered in Central Delhi, raising concerns from organizations like Amnesty International India. Critics argue that these steps contradict precedents set by landmark judgments on internet freedoms and protest rights. This sentiment was echoed by Aakar Patel, who emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of peaceful protesters amid these sweeping restrictions.
The unfolding situation remains tense, as both legal and civil entities navigate the balance between security measures and democratic freedoms.