CPI(M) stages torchlight protest in Madurai condemning Delhi arrests over SIR controversy

Accusing irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) voter list revision measures, CPI(M) staged a torchlight condemnation protest in Madurai condemning the arrest of Communist Party of India (Marxist) All India General Secretary M.A. Baby, former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, All India functionaries Brinda Karat, K.K. Shailaja, and other leaders who attempted to stage a protest in Delhi demanding that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar resign and that SIR measures be completely scrapped.

Speaking at the protest, Madurai MP Su. Venkatesan, said, “Mr. Gyanesh Kumar should resign immediately. SIR measures should be completely scrapped. The voter list that was in practice before the start of SIR measures should be re-implemented. A protest had been planned in Delhi demanding the scrapping of the special law enacted in 2023 regarding the appointment of Election Commissioners.”

Political party leaders, youth, students, and others who were scheduled to participate in this protest have been arrested by the Delhi police. Extreme violence has been unleashed against them. Condemning this, INDIA Alliance parties, especially Left parties, have conducted this mass protest in Madurai.

“Information indicates that since yesterday afternoon, around 420 trains scheduled to arrive in Delhi have been cancelled, 56 metro rail stations have been closed, and internet facilities have been cut off in the central areas of Delhi. Actions such as paralysing train transport, closing metro stations, and cutting off internet services are similar to those undertaken in regions like Jammu and Kashmir and Manipur, and in war-like scenarios. Yet, such actions are being undertaken in the very capital of India,” he added.

The government, which arrests leaders protesting for lawful action, provides Z-plus security to the Chief Election Commissioner who faces allegations. This is an attack on democracy.

“This is what we have to say to the Union government. The voice of democracy cannot be suppressed through violence. No matter how much violence is unleashed, you cannot extinguish the fire burning for people’s rights,” he remarked.