‘What are you so scared of?’ Opposition reacts as 3 former CMs get detained in Delhi

On October 10, 2023, thousands of protesters gathered in Delhi to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The demonstrators alleged irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls, claiming that the process was flawed and needed to be addressed. Among those detained were three former chief ministers: Pinarayi Vijayan, Arvind Kejriwal, and Mamata Banerjee.

Police stated that the gathering lacked proper authorization, and security personnel were deployed to maintain crowd safety and manage traffic.

Opposition leaders criticized the detentions and questioned the treatment of those taken into custody. They argued that the restrictions on protest activities were disproportionate and potentially unlawful. The Cockroach Janta Party, along with the Communist Party of India (Marxist), called for Kumar's resignation and demanded an inquiry into the alleged irregularities. They also urged for changes to the electoral process to ensure transparency and fairness.

As protesters remained persistent, authorities took additional measures, including closing 46 Metro stations and deploying security personnel at key locations. Activists alleged that police had driven Vijayan around the city for several hours, denying him access to his medications and basic necessities like food and water. CPI(M) leader MB Rajesh described the police action as unlawful and inhumane, emphasizing the need for a response from Chief Minister VD Satheesan.

Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) alleged that Banerjee was detained alongside her party members and shared a video from a prison van, highlighting concerns about ventilation and the treatment of detained leaders.