Thousands of Indians took to the streets on Sunday to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, as police opened an investigation into sexual harassment allegations against officers during demonstrations in New Delhi.
The protests began on Friday over allegations of irregularities in a large-scale revision of India’s voter rolls, which opposition groups claim has removed millions of names from electoral lists. The Election Commission of India has rejected the allegations.
In Mumbai, protesters waved Indian flags and called for Kumar to step down, while opposition groups and activists announced plans for further demonstrations across the country.
The controversy intensified after three female journalists accused Delhi Police officers of sexual harassment while they were covering protests at Jantar Mantar on Saturday. Delhi Police confirmed receiving the complaints and transferred them to the Crime Branch for a fair and impartial investigation.
One journalist alleged that a police officer pushed and touched her inappropriately while protesters were being detained. Another complaint alleged inappropriate contact by a police officer.
More than 150 people were detained during Saturday’s demonstrations, according to Indian media reports. Opposition leaders have criticised the police response and demanded action over the allegations.
Further protests are expected, with opposition groups planning a march to the Election Commission on Tuesday and nationwide “Save Democracy” rallies afterwards.
Leave a comment