In brief
Female journalists say Delhi police harassed them at rallies against a voter roll overhaul, claiming unwanted physical contact and intimidation. The protest reflects widespread anger over the Special Intensive Revision, which the Election Commission says removes duplicate records but critics say favours the ruling party. Delhi Police has transferred the complaints to its crime branch for an impartial inquiry. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, voiced concern over safety and called for the polls chief to step down. The incident underscores the tensions surrounding electoral reforms and press freedom in India.
Three female journalists say police officers in Delhi harassed them while detaining demonstrators who demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over a planned overhaul of the voter register.
The allegations, made public on Saturday, detail unwanted physical contact and intimidation by officers who allegedly dragged protestors and pulled one by her hair.
Delhi Police responded by filing a complaint with the New Delhi District police and sending it to its crime branch for a “fair and impartial” investigation, according to a post on social media.
The protests stem from a last‑year initiative called the Special Intensive Revision, which has so far struck off 130 million names from the electoral rolls. Critics claim the exercise strengthens the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s electoral prospects, while the Election Commission argues it removes duplicate and ineligible entries.
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi demanded accountability, stating women fear for their safety and that the home ministry must respond. A student activist quoted by Reuters said the police were resorting to “brutality” during the confrontation.
The unrest comes amid growing calls for accountability over the revision process and a broader debate on press freedom and public safety in India’s bustling capital.
