Barricades cannot silence the voice of democracy
This article discusses the increasing restrictions on protest sites in New Delhi, specifically focusing on Jantar Mantar and the recent demonstrations against the Election Commission of India. It argues that administrative barricades and police restrictions are undermining the democratic right to dissent.
Why it matters
The piece addresses the tension between state security measures and the fundamental right to protest, which is a critical issue for democratic health in India.
The past few months have seen considerable action at the barricades of Jantar Mantar. A recent media investigation on happenings in the Election Commission of India (ECI) sparked a new wave of protests, this time against the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The demand for Mr. Kumar’s resignation has become a demand for electoral integrity itself. On October 2, 2026, prohibitory orders under Section 163 were imposed across the New Delhi district ahead of the protest against the CEC at Jantar Mantar. A number of Metro stations were closed, and major traffic restrictions were announced.
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