India news today reports a wave of street demonstrations now in their third day. India news today says citizens in Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana and other states are gathering to demand the Election Commission chief resign over worries about the upcoming polls’ integrity.
Key takeaways
- Protests have spread to over 20 cities, including Delhi and Mumbai.
- Political parties such as the Haryana Congress and the INDIA bloc have announced statewide rallies.
- Authorities have deployed 5,000 police officers, drones and barricades to manage crowds.
- Demands focus on the removal of the poll chief and a review of the Voter‑verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) system.
India news today: Why protests are growing
The movement started when the Election Commission rolled out new guidelines that opposition groups say favour the ruling party. On day two, thousands gathered along Delhi’s India Gate‑Jantar Mantar corridor, and police responded with heavy security.
Reuters notes that protesters blame a lack of transparency in the electronic voting machine (EVM) process and are urging the scrap of the Secure Internet Repository (SIR) in favor of paper ballots.
Political parties rally across states
The Times of India reports that the Haryana Congress and the INDIA bloc have organized a statewide protest. Their leaders visited small towns like Rohru and Rampur, urging residents to join the demonstrations in the capital.
In Maharashtra, the Thackeray cousins headed a crowd in Mumbai, demanding the poll chief’s removal and chanting “Scrap SIR, scrap EVMs”. NDTV showed how the march’s emotional tone was amplified by banners that read “Save Democracy”.
Police preparations and restrictions
Hindustan Times says 5,000 police officers, backed by drones and temporary barricades, stood ready along the India Gate‑Jantar Mantar route. Officials added that the march lacked official permission, but they still expected a big turnout.
Authorities warned that breaking the restricted zone could result in arrests, while urging demonstrators to stay peaceful.
| Location | Security Measures |
|---|---|
| Delhi (India Gate‑Jantar Mantar) | 5,000 police, drones, barricades |
| Mumbai (Marine Drive) | Thousands of police, crowd control barriers |
Key demands from protesters
The rally’s “Save Democracy” slogan boils down to three demands:
- Immediate resignation of the Election Commission chief.
- A transparent audit of the EVMs used in recent elections.
- Implementation of a paper‑based verification system for future polls.
Activists say that without these steps, public confidence in elections will keep eroding.
International attention and diplomatic visits
As the protests continue, Swiss President Alain Berset is set to start a three‑day state visit to India tomorrow, News On AIR reports. Diplomatic circles are watching closely, fearing the unrest could impact trade and technology talks.
Observers note that the protests’ timing—coinciding with a high‑profile foreign visit—puts extra pressure on the government to act quickly.
What lies ahead for the election chief
Al Jazeera cites government insiders who say the chief could face a formal inquiry if protests keep up. The Election Commission, however, defends its stance, saying all procedures follow constitutional rules.
Legal experts warn that forcing a removal without due process could set a precedent that harms the independence of constitutional bodies.
Anyone planning to join should carry valid ID, stay inside the designated zones, and follow police instructions to avoid legal trouble.
FAQ
Why are people demanding the poll chief’s resignation?
Protesters allege bias in the Election Commission’s recent decisions and fear that electronic voting machines lack transparency.
Which political parties are leading the protests?
The Haryana Congress, the INDIA bloc and regional leaders such as the Thackeray cousins have organized rallies across several states.
How many police officers have been deployed for the protests?
Around 5,000 police personnel, supported by drones and barricades, are stationed in Delhi, with similar forces in Mumbai.
Will the protests affect the upcoming elections?
If the demands are not addressed, the unrest could delay or complicate the election schedule, according to analysts.
What should participants do to stay safe?
Carry identification, stay within permitted areas, and follow instructions from law‑enforcement officials.
Sources
- Al Jazeera: Mass protests demanding poll chief resignation shake India for third day
- The Times of India: Haryana Congress, INDIA bloc announce statewide protests
- Reuters: Protests intensify in India over demands for election chief to quit
- ABP Live English: India Breaking: Day 2 of ‘Save Democracy’ March Sees Protests Across Cities Over EC Row
- NDTV: Scrap SIR, EVMs: Thackeray Cousins Lead Mumbai Protest Against Poll Body Chief
