Devendra Fadnavis: 'This Is Anarchy' Behind Manufactured Protests

Speaking amid rival demonstrations in central Delhi's Connaught Place, BJP leader Rajnath Singh targeted opponents over demands for regime change. He stated that terms like 'regime change' demonstrate the ongoing stir is not about electoral reforms, the Election Commission of India, Gyanesh Kumar, or the future of youth, alleging instead that it is a conspiracy to capture power by spreading anarchy across the country. He added that democratic discourse falls prey to prejudice and propaganda when political self-interest takes precedence over truth and national interest.

High drama unfolded in central Delhi as police detained key protest leaders, including Neha Bora, Deepankar Bhattacharya, and Abhijeet Dipke, during a march towards Connaught Place. Protesters and student groups, including Left associations and members of AISA, gathered from Mandi House, Barakhamba Road, and KG Marg to stage demonstrations against the Election Commission. Paramilitary personnel and Delhi Police maintained a heavy presence, cordoning off central areas and halting minivans carrying detainees amidst sit-ins by students. Speaking to the network, activist Anjali Bhardwaj asserted that holding peaceful protests is a fundamental right and criticized security forces for restricting citizens carrying national flags. She demanded accountability from the Chief Election Commissioner and called for scrapping the Special Intensive Revision exercise, alleging that the poll body has acted in a biased manner. Responding to government allegations regarding attempts at regime change, Bhardwaj maintained that regular elections exist specifically for peaceful transitions of power in a democracy.

Police detained student and activist leaders in central Delhi ahead of a planned demonstration. Despite the detentions, crowds comprising students, youth, and parents gathered in solidarity across Connaught Place and surrounding stretches, including Barakhamba Road and Mandi House. A large contingent of police personnel was deployed across the area to manage the assembly and prevent marchers from advancing.

High drama unfolded across central Delhi as demonstrations broke out outside Central Park in Connaught Place and shifted towards Mandi House. Demonstrators gathered to oppose protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, arguing that creating anarchy under the pretext of unfurling the national flag is unacceptable and calling for him to be honoured with the Bharat Ratna instead. Meanwhile, Delhi Police stepped up security across the heavily fortified central area, placing Abhijit Dipke under preventive detention. Following police action, student body activists from the left wing altered their march from Connaught Place towards Mandi House amid heightened police vigilance.