Delhi Police Files 27 FIRs Amid Protests Against CEC Gyanesh Kumar

A series of protests targeting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar has resulted in the registration of 27 FIRs within a seven-day period in New Delhi. The demonstrations, led by members of the INDIA bloc, student groups, and civil society organisations, were staged to demand the resignation of the CEC due to alleged irregularities during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. While protesters have pressed for accountability, the Election Commission has officially rejected these allegations.Legal records indicate that the FIRs frequently invoke sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). According to a compilation of the case files, Section 3(5) of the BNS, which addresses shared liability for offences committed with common intention, was cited in 22 of the 27 cases. Furthermore, Section 223(a)—pertaining to the disobedience of orders issued by a public servant—appeared in 18 FIRs. Other provisions commonly used include Section 221, concerning the obstruction of a public servant on duty, and Section 132, which deals with the use of criminal force to prevent official duties.The protests have frequently focused on the New Delhi district, where police had denied permission for several gatherings and imposed restrictions on public assemblies. Amid these heightened tensions, demonstrators have attempted to march toward Jantar Mantar, leading to multiple detentions by law enforcement. Beyond BNS provisions, authorities have invoked Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act in nine instances. The charges listed across the various FIRs also include allegations of causing hurt to public servants and wrongful restraint, as demonstrators continue to challenge the current electoral revision processes.As of now, the situation remains tense as the Delhi Police continues to monitor public movement. The legal proceedings are ongoing, with investigators reviewing evidence related to the obstruction of public servants and the unauthorised entry into restricted areas during the week-long agitation.