Protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar took place in Delhi and Mumbai on October 2, 2026 (Gandhi Jayanti), linked to allegations surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
In the national capital, security forces stopped a planned protest at Jantar Mantar. Delhi Police had denied permission for the gathering, imposed prohibitory orders in New Delhi district, and temporarily closed entry and exit at several metro stations. Hundreds of protesters — including members of opposition parties, student organisations such as AISA, and civil society activists — were detained as they attempted to reach the site. Reports put the number of detentions between several hundred and over a thousand.
Meanwhile, a large gathering took place at Mumbai’s historic Shivaji Park. The demonstration was organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and drew thousands of participants, including young activists, despite police having denied permission for the event. Heavy security was deployed around the area and near Dadar railway station, but the protest proceeded largely peacefully. Supporters carried the national flag and placards with slogans such as “Gyanesh BRO, JUST RESIGN,” “Gyanu Must Go,” and messages questioning trust in the democratic process. Prominent personalities including actors Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi were among those present. The CJP has announced plans for further protests, including a possible “Jantar Mantar 2.0” in Delhi on October 10 if the CEC does not step down
The demonstrations stem from concerns over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Critics, including opposition parties and activists, have alleged irregularities and raised questions about transparency, citing media reports of internal objections recorded by other Election Commissioners regarding certain decisions related to the revision process. The Election Commission has maintained that the SIR aims to clean voter lists of duplicates and ineligible entries while ensuring eligible voters remain enrolled. Both the Commission and the government have rejected allegations of wrongdoing.
Protesters have called for greater transparency in the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner, a halt or review of the SIR process, and accountability regarding changes to electoral rolls.
The dual protests in Delhi and Mumbai highlight the continuing political debate over the integrity of India’s electoral processes. Further developments and official responses are expected in the coming days.