Heavy security deployment, mass detentions and transport restrictions failed to prevent protests against the ECI, raising concerns over handling of peaceful democratic dissent
Peaceful protest is a democratic right. Designated protest sites and early engagement with demonstrators could help balance public order with citizens’ freedom to dissent
The SIR exercise and large-scale voter exclusions have raised concerns about implementation
Around 93% of decided exclusion appeals in West Bengal resulted in voters being restored to the rolls
A clean electoral roll is essential, but the method matters
The high rate of reversals in appeals points to possible flaws in the revision process and the need for greater scrutiny
Reports of internal decision-making concerns and SC scrutiny underline the need to examine the ECI’s functioning and resolve questions about its procedures without undue delay
Free and fair elections depend on a credible ECI
The government and the Commission must engage stakeholders, address concerns transparently and make timely course corrections to protect democratic institutions