New Delhi: A petition filed by thirteen opposition leaders, including Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, questioning the functioning of the Election Commission of India has received a digitally generated hearing date of October 26 on the Supreme Court website.
The plea challenges the poll body's operations and demands the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged unilateral decision-making, modifications to Form 6 without due process, and voter list procedures.
An earlier related petition challenging the working of the commission had notices issued on October 5 and is scheduled for a hearing on October 27, where the court sought file notings on decision-making processes.
Meanwhile, related protests in central Delhi have drawn sharp political reactions after young demonstrators detained during the agitations alleged severe police assault, arbitrary detention, and harassment in makeshift holding areas.
Speaking about their ordeal, a demonstrator named Arjun recounted being picked up from Connaught Place alongside journalists, lawyers, and minors, alleging that detainees had their mobile phones confiscated and faced physical assault inside police vehicles before being shifted to Pandwala Khurd.
Another student detainee alleged severe mistreatment, physical beatings, and fabricated FIRs following custody at the Parliament Street police station, with protesters highlighting that minors and injured youths were subjected to harsh treatment without prompt medical aid.
Addressing the gathered demonstrators, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed solidarity with the youth, stating that the agitation represents the collective voice of India across communities.
He advised students to document and preserve video evidence of police actions, asserting that accountability would be sought against officials involved in suppressing democratic protests.