New Delhi: The atmosphere in the national capital, Delhi, is currently quite charged, with tensions simmering between the government, the opposition, and various social organisations. Questions raised regarding the Chief Election Commissioner, specifically concerning the ‘special intensive revision’ [of electoral rolls, are emerging as a challenge for the government. Protests are ongoing in Delhi, with demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Meanwhile, the Congress party has expressed outrage over police action that took place in Delhi at 4:30 AM. Udaybhan Chib, President of the Indian Youth Congress, along with other party leaders and NSUI activists, was taken into custody outside the Sansad Marg police station. Congress leaders have alleged that the Delhi Police arrested the activists who had been demanding the registration of an FIR throughout the night in the early hours of the morning. Furthermore, the party has raised concerns regarding the alleged mistreatment of two female NSUI activists, Ritu Barala and Athira Vijayan, by the police.
Questions raised by Udaybhan Chib
Indian Youth Congress President Udaybhan Chib shared a video of the incident on the social media platform ‘X’ and questioned the actions of the Delhi Police. He remarked, “Demanded an FIR all night, and got arrested at 4:30 AM! What kind of justice is this, Delhi Police?”
Referring to NSUI activists Ritu Barala and Athira, he asked what exactly their ‘crime’ was. Additionally, Congress leader BV Srinivas also shared a video of the police action, writing that the Delhi Police seems to forget that their salaries are paid by the people of India, not by the BJP headquarters.
Warning issued by Srinivas
In another post on social media, Congress leader BV Srinivas warned that the Delhi Police would have to provide an answer. He further asserted that if an FIR is not registered against those in uniform whom he described as ‘BJP goons’, then the response will be given on the streets. Ritu Barala recounts her ordeal.
During a protest by the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), an incident involving a physical altercation between Ritu Barala and a female police officer came to light. Ritu hails from Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan and has been active in student politics at the University of Rajasthan. On Wednesday, during a press conference in Delhi alongside Rahul Gandhi, Ritu spoke about the mistreatment she faced during the protest. Referring to her, Rahul Gandhi even described her as a “lioness” (sherni). When asked if she felt afraid, Ritu replied that she was not afraid.
