Curbs fail to mute anti-SIR chorus sweeping states
Protests against the Systemic Integration of Rolls (SIR) have occurred across several Indian states, leading to police detentions and security crackdowns. Demonstrators are calling for the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner and a return to traditional ballot-paper voting.
Why it matters
The protests reflect growing public distrust in electoral processes and the administration of voting systems in India.
From Mahatma Gandhi's great-grandson being held for 10 hours in Mumbai to police stopping marches in multiple cities, Saturday's anti-SIR protests triggered detentions and security clampdowns across states. Demonstrators demanded CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation and withdrawal of SIR of poll rolls.In Mumbai, cops detained Tushar Gandhi, actor Imran Khan and others, while barricades blocked access to August Kranti Maidan. Tushar was picked up near National College at 9.30am and released at 7.30pm. His daughter Kasturi Gandhi was also detained. She said overcrowded police stations forced police to take her farther away. Hundreds gathered near the maidan in small groups, shouting slogans and causing traffic congestion.In Pune, police detained 92 people attempting to hold a rally without permission. They were released after a few hours.
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