Student and youth activists addressed a press conference in Delhi to detail mass detentions, alleged police brutality, and severe curbs imposed across the national capital during recent demonstrations. Speakers at the briefing claimed that law enforcement personnel engaged in heavy-handed tactics, including boarding an aircraft to forcefully abduct key activists. They further alleged that mobile devices were confiscated without proper seizure memos or hash values, and that detained individuals were denied access to legal representation.
The press briefing highlighted an emergency-like situation across Delhi due to massive security deployments, which included between 30,000 and 40,000 security personnel, the closure of 57 metro stations, train cancellations, and the shuttering of local shops. Activists alleged that thousands of people heading toward designated protest sites at Jantar Mantar to voice grievances were intercepted and detained over a 72-hour period. Speakers drew comparisons to the 1975 Emergency, arguing that the sweeping movement restrictions surpassed past measures.
Strong condemnation was also directed at the Delhi Police for entering Gurdwara Bangla Sahib while protesters sought shelter inside. Activists accused officers of entering the sacred premises with batons and firearms while disrespecting religious customs, though temple management committees and authorities later clarified the police moved through a common passageway where footwear is permitted. A political row ensued, accompanied by a written complaint from the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee against political leaders for allegedly spreading false narratives about the incident.
The protests were initially organized to demand transparency and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, amid allegations regarding the deletion of 13 crore voters from electoral rolls. Organizers urged citizens across multiple states to continue peaceful street demonstrations, maintaining that public pressure against alleged electoral manipulation will persist despite the heavy security crackdown.