Left leaders detained in Delhi ahead of CEC protest march

Senior leaders of India's Communist parties were taken into custody on Tuesday while attempting to mount a protest at the iconic Jantar Mantar venue in the national capital. Among those detained were Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, CPI(M) Politburo member Brinda Karat, and other prominent Left-affiliated activists.

The protest had been called to oppose the functioning of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, marking an escalation in political tensions between the Left parties and the current administration. The demonstration was planned at Jantar Mantar, a traditional venue for political protests in the heart of New Delhi.

Authorities cited security concerns and prior restrictions on gatherings at the location as grounds for the detentions. The action drew criticism from the Left parties, who accused the government of suppressing democratic dissent and preventing peaceful protest.

The incident reflects growing friction between Left parties and the Centre over election-related matters. Communist leaders have previously raised concerns regarding the Election Commission's functioning and accused it of partisan conduct during electoral processes.