India's top judge backs Delhi protest as UN raises detention concerns

The Chief Justice of India on Tuesday voiced support for protests challenging the Chief Election Commissioner, calling for a 'Chalo Jantar Mantar' march as demonstrations intensify across the capital. The remarks underline growing pressure on India's electoral body amid allegations of administrative overreach.

Simultaneously, the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a contempt plea related to the transit shutdown imposed during the ongoing agitation. The closure of Delhi's public transportation network has disrupted daily commutes and drawn criticism from commuters and civil society groups.

International scrutiny has intensified as the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed concern over reported mass detentions at protest sites. The office flagged what it described as widespread arrests of demonstrators, raising questions about police conduct during the demonstrations.

Government officials have firmly rejected the UN allegations, dismissing reports of mass detentions as unsubstantiated. They have defended law enforcement actions as proportionate responses to maintain public order during the extended protests.

The escalating confrontation reflects deepening tensions over the Chief Election Commissioner's tenure, with multiple stakeholders—from India's judiciary to international human rights bodies—now actively engaged in the controversy.