LSR Students Protest Rape Incident, Dark Lanes, and Inactive Pink Booths

In an interview with India Today, former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa discussed reports concerning objections raised by two sitting election commissioners regarding decisions taken by the Election Commission of India. Lavasa questioned the procedural legality of actions taken during the Special Intensive Revision exercise, highlighting issues surrounding modifications to Form 6 and the centralisation of the voter database. He noted, "All the details should be placed in the public domain so that things are clear." Lavasa underscored that statutory powers regarding voter addition and deletion belong strictly to Electoral Registration Officers under the law, warning against centralising decisions without proper legal authority. He also pointed to court affidavits regarding electoral roll deletions in West Bengal, noting that a high proportion of appeals decided in favour of deleted electors indicates systemic concerns that require transparent clarification from the poll panel.

Students of Lady Shri Ram College for Women held a solidarity march and protest following the gang rape of a 17-year-old at Aastha Kunj Park and a subsequent police encounter of an accused near the college back gate. The institution suspended physical classes and shifted online on Wednesday amid safety concerns among students living in nearby paying guest accommodations. Protesters raised slogans demanding safer public spaces, increased accountability from authorities, and effective policing across Delhi. Students pointed out safety issues along the desolate stretch behind the college campus, citing the absence of functioning CCTV surveillance and regular police patrols. The demonstration highlighted recurring incidents of sexual violence against women and minors across the national capital, as students questioned administrative measures that force women to retreat indoors instead of securing roads and neighbourhoods.

The Election Commission of India faces scrutiny following reports detailing internal dissent, with questions raised regarding changes made to Form 6 and the legality of the process followed. Further concerns have emerged over the centralisation of data, which commissioners noted was not in accordance with the law, as well as communications addressed to the cabinet secretary. While the poll body issued a press release asserting that internal deliberations and discussions routinely precede decisions and pointed to unanimous signatures on the final Special Summary Revision order, questions persist regarding voter additions in West Bengal and objections raised against them, leaving key queries regarding administrative processes unanswered.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu discussed ending India's 28-year medal drought in weightlifting at the Asian Games by winning a silver medal. Having previously secured Olympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth Games podium finishes, she noted that this was the only missing accolade in her career, stating, "Finally now the medal list is complete." Mirabai explained her disciplined preparation, revealing that she cuts off social media and phone access before major competitions to prevent injuries and maintain peak focus. She added that her coach has granted permission to celebrate the achievement, confirming she will enjoy pizza before turning her attention to future tournaments.