Journalists, protesters, MP allege police brutality; cops cite non-cooperation during detentions
Delhi Police detained several journalists and protesters during a demonstration against electoral roll irregularities, leading to allegations of police brutality. Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas has formally complained to high-level authorities, citing an assault on democratic freedoms and parliamentary privilege.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding press freedom, the right to protest, and the conduct of law enforcement in the context of democratic dissent.
About a dozen journalists were among those detained by the Delhi Police during Sunday’s (October 11, 2026) protests in central Delhi, with several alleging that they were manhandled, shoved into detention vehicles and prevented from reporting on police action against demonstrators. Communist Party of India (Marxist) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas also alleged that he was assaulted by the police while interacting with the media and subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.
The incidents took place at multiple locations, including Connaught Place and near Ramakrishna Ashram Marg Metro station, as student organisations and other groups attempted to march against alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Several journalists said they had displayed their press cards and identified themselves as media personnel but were detained nonetheless.
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