New Delhi: Social media influencer Dhruv Rathee was released from Delhi Police custody on the night of October 11, after being detained earlier that day before a protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party. The police have cautioned that he could be rearrested if he attempts to go to the Jantar Mantar area, which is under prohibitory orders.
Dhruv was taken into custody at his home in Sector 56, Gurugram, as police heightened security to prevent protestors from entering restricted zones.
The protest aimed to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged malpractice in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls across the country.
A police spokesperson stated that Dhruv would face re-arrest if he returns to Jantar Mantar.
Over 7,000 Protesters Arrested in Delhi
Dhruv’s detention occurred amid increased police security throughout Delhi to prevent any disturbances during the protest.
According to the police, over 7,000 protestors were arrested in various locations in Delhi as they attempted to reach the protest site.
Senior CJP leaders, including Abhijeet Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka, and Saurav Das, were also detained while at Indira Gandhi International Airport en route to Delhi.
The police implemented extensive security measures, set up blockades, and advised against public gatherings to thwart participation in the unauthorized protest.
The CJP’s attempt to organize the protest has sparked significant discontent, particularly in light of the police’s strict measures to prevent assembly.
CJP Leaders Condemn Authorities
CJP leaders have accused the Delhi Police of using illegal tactics to stop them from reaching the protest area.
While the CJP protested against the SIR issue, both the Election Commission and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party denied all accusations.
The SIR issue has generated controversy, with various opposition figures and activists accusing the Election Commission of malpractice, claiming that many voters were removed from the rolls without justification, depriving them of their voting rights.
SIR allows for intensive revision of electoral rolls for a limited period, typically lasting 3-4 months at the end of each financial year.
The ongoing debate has affected numerous voters who contested these changes.
SIR Protests Continue to Generate Discussion
As Delhi Police maintains restrictions on gatherings, the CJP and others will persist in criticizing authorities for infringing on their fundamental rights.
Meanwhile, a senior Delhi Police official indicated that several FIRs may be filed regarding alleged assaults on police personnel by protestors.
The SIR issue remains a central topic of discussion, as over 7,000 protestors were detained in Delhi on October 10.
The CJP and others will continue to raise concerns over the alleged malpractice surrounding the SIR.