Delhi Police denies permission for protest against Gyanesh; Section 163 imposed

The Delhi Police has denied permission for a protest against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, which was proposed to be held at Jantar Mantar on October 2.

The protest is being organized by social activists and student leaders.

In view of the planned protest, the police have stepped up security in and around New Delhi. Personnel from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed to handle potential crowds gathering at Jantar Mantar.

The Delhi Police has enhanced security measures in and around New Delhi by invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for New Delhi wrote on the social media platform X, "Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, is in force in the New Delhi district to ensure public safety, law and order, and the smooth flow of traffic. Under this provision, unauthorized gatherings, public speeches, slogan-shouting, processions, demonstrations, sit-ins, and other activities specified in the order are prohibited."

Following reports in *The Indian Express* regarding differences of opinion between the Chief Election Commissioner and the two Election Commissioners over the SIR (Special Summary Revision) process, several opposition parties—including the Congress—have alleged that the Election Commission is helping the BJP win elections by manipulating the voter list.