Karnataka experienced a striking contrast in governance and political actions on October 12, as two distinct realities unfolded simultaneously. While senior political figures took to the streets of New Delhi to lead an opposition march against SIR and police high-handedness, a heavy-handed police response was witnessed back home in Bangalore. The local police not only detained dozens of students who were demonstrating against the election commission but also allegedly manhandled and shoved photojournalists who were trying to document the entire sequence of events.
Tension Near the CEO Office Close to Freedom Park
The disturbance took place right outside SJP College, situated directly opposite the Chief Electoral Officer office and roughly a kilometer away from Freedom Park. The participating students and activists were marching toward the CEO office to demand the immediate cancellation of the voter list revision along with the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Clashes and Interference With Media Coverage
According to eyewitness accounts, uniformed police personnel were accompanied by individuals in plain clothes who suddenly surrounded the protesters. Amidst the chaos, attempts were made to snatch equipment from media workers who were covering the ground events, leading to physical altercations with reporters. This aggressive police action against students and the press within their own state has ignited severe criticism regarding the administration's dual stance.
Social Media Outcry and Official Explanation
The activist group My Vote, My Right stated that authorities began detaining individuals even before the march could officially commence. This development drew widespread condemnation across digital platforms. Ashoka University associate professor Arpita Das tagged prominent leaders on X to question why such measures were being deployed against youth supporting their cause in a state governed by the party. Meanwhile, DCP Central Akshay M. Hakay explained that protesters had been advised to move to Freedom Park, and upon their refusal, preventive custody measures were enforced.
