'Cannot Demand Right To Protest In Delhi And Deny It In Bengaluru': DK Shivakumar After Cops Detain Over 100 Protesters In Bengaluru

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has emphasized that the right to peaceful protest must be upheld uniformly across all states, not just selectively in Delhi while disregarding the rights of protesters in Bengaluru. This stance emerged following police detentions of over 100 demonstrators in Bengaluru who were protesting against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the city.

Shivakumar stated, "The right to peaceful protest is fundamental to our democracy. We cannot demand that right for ourselves in Delhi and deny it to others in Bengaluru." He added, "I have taken note of yesterday's incident involving protesters and members of the media and have sought a detailed report on the circumstances leading to police action." The Deputy Chief Minister warned of accountability if there were any excessive use of force or violations during such protests.

Shivakumar reiterated his commitment to ensuring that no double standards are applied when it comes to the right to peacefully express dissent. He clarified that disagreement with the Election Commission, the government, or personal opinions should not diminish anyone's right to protest peacefully. His statement followed protests that took place in Bengaluru, where journalists and photographers covering the demonstration were allegedly manhandled by the police.

Rahul Gandhi was also involved in an incident where he allegedly elbowed a protester and pulled Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar by the collar during a march to the Supreme Court in Delhi to protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the SIR process. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge echoed similar sentiments, instructing the police to ensure that peaceful demonstrations were not disrupted, emphasizing that the right to peaceful protest is fundamental to democracy and must be respected and protected.