‘Muzzled Democracy’ Kharge Raises Concerns Over Restrictions On Public Protests

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday criticised the Narendra Modi-led central government over the security restrictions and detentions imposed ahead of a planned protest in the national capital. He accused the government of undermining democratic freedoms, saying India’s image as the “Mother of Democracy” had been turned into a “Muzzled Democracy”. His remarks came as police tightened security across Delhi to prevent protesters from gathering at Jantar Mantar for a demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

In a post on X, Kharge alleged that students, young people, lawyers, journalists, social activists, farmers’ union leaders and digital content creators were being detained for questioning the government. He condemned the police action and argued that citizens must be allowed to exercise their democratic rights. The Congress leader also maintained that arrests and restrictions would not discourage young people from participating in public affairs or raising concerns about issues affecting the country.

Kharge reiterated that the Congress would continue its opposition to the government alongside other opposition parties. He emphasised the importance of protecting the Constitution, democratic institutions and the fundamental rights of citizens. Referring to India’s freedom struggle, he said young people had historically played an important role in shaping the country’s future. He added that the Congress would continue its political campaign against what he described as attempts to weaken democratic principles.

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The criticism followed extensive security arrangements across central Delhi ahead of a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and other groups on October 10. The demonstrators sought the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar amid allegations concerning the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Delhi Police denied permission for the proposed demonstration, citing security and law-and-order concerns, while authorities introduced barricades, traffic restrictions and additional deployments to prevent large gatherings.

The restrictions and detentions prompted criticism from several opposition leaders, who questioned the government’s handling of protests and the space available for peaceful dissent. Police detained people attempting to reach the proposed demonstration site, while security personnel monitored movement across several parts of the capital. The developments intensified the political dispute between the opposition and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over electoral processes, public demonstrations and the functioning of democratic institutions.

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