Delhi Police file 25 FIRs against SIR protesters, name Congress leaders

The Delhi Police have initiated 25 first information reports (FIRs) in connection with ongoing protests over the Special Inclusive Register (SIR) of electoral rolls in the national capital since October 2, police sources confirmed. The cases pertain to allegations including vandalism of public property, assaults on police personnel, obstruction of government functions, and violation of prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the New Delhi district.

Opposition lawmakers, including Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have been named in connection with the demonstrations that have gripped the capital in recent weeks. The police have justified their enforcement actions citing repeated instances of alleged unlawful conduct during the protests.

The demonstrations were triggered following a report by The Indian Express highlighting objections raised by Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi against multiple decisions and directives related to the SIR compilation process. Opposition members have mounted sustained protests at various locations in Delhi to voice their concerns over the electoral roll matter.

The FIRs registered by police underscore the growing tensions between security personnel and protesters during the demonstrations, which have disrupted normal activities in parts of the capital.