Mumbai University students demand arrest of poll chief over SIR controversy

Students at Mumbai University took to the streets on Tuesday to protest against the Special Intelligence Report (SIR), intensifying pressure on electoral authorities over the controversial document. The demonstration, organised jointly by the Disha Students' Organisation and the Bhagat Singh Jan Adhikar Yatra (BSJAY), drew participation from campus activists demanding immediate action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

The protest reflected growing student dissatisfaction with the handling of the SIR matter and broader concerns about the independence of India's electoral machinery. Participants carried placards and raised slogans criticising both the alleged misuse of the report and the institutional framework governing election management in the country.

Beyond their immediate demand for the arrest of the poll chief, the student groups used the platform to mobilise support for legislative changes. They called for scrapping the 2023 law that prescribes the process for appointing Election Commissioners, arguing the legislation undermines democratic principles and electoral autonomy.

The Mumbai University demonstration adds to rising student activism on electoral and constitutional matters across Indian campuses, with youth groups increasingly vocal on issues of institutional accountability and democratic governance.