Delhi Police Launch Inquiry into Harassment Claims During Election Commission Protests
Indian authorities have initiated an investigation following reports of sexual harassment involving police officers during recent demonstrations in New Delhi. The unrest stems from protests demanding the resignation of Election Commission of India (ECI) chief Gyanesh Kumar, with demonstrators alleging widespread irregularities in the latest voter-roll revision. While the ECI has categorically denied these claims, the situation escalated on Saturday when police detained numerous activists near Jantar Mantar. During this intervention, three female journalists reported being harassed by officers, with one individual sharing video testimony alleging that she was touched inappropriately during the scuffles.
In response to the growing public outcry, Delhi police have pledged to conduct an impartial inquiry into the incident, though activists are calling for more immediate accountability, including the arrest of the accused officer. The protests are expected to continue, with various left-wing organizations and the satirical political movement known as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) planning further mobilizations. Opposition figures have used the tension to sharpen their criticism of the ECI, alleging that the commission is operating under the influence of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. As activists gear up for nationwide "Save Democracy" rallies, the incident has highlighted deep-seated concerns regarding both the integrity of the electoral process and the safety of those exercising their right to protest.