Jean Drèze Alleges Heavy Security at CJP Protest Threatens Voting Rights
· India · Hindustan Times, Indian Express
Economist Jean Drèze criticised the heavy security deployment around the Cockroach Janta Party’s protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Saturday, alleging the display of force was disproportionate. He stated the government’s aim was to prevent people from understanding that their voting rights were under threat. Drèze claimed authorities were not concerned about violence but feared people would realise their right to vote was being taken away. The protest demanded the resignation of chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Authorities imposed unprecedented restrictions, including closing gates at 45 metro stations, disabling mobile internet access across central Delhi, cancelling trains to the city, and bringing in paramilitary reinforcements by special train.
Why it matters
The heavy security measures and internet shutdown in central Delhi directly restrict citizens’ ability to assemble and access information, undermining democratic participation. Voters and activists are specifically affected as their right to protest and be informed about electoral processes is curtailed.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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