Coastal Karnataka's Udupi witnessed a protest on Friday, September 25, as the district unit of the Welfare Party of India gathered near the Ajjarakadu Martyrs' Memorial. The demonstration called for the immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of 'betrayal' related to the Special Summary Revision (SIR) process.
Social activist Amrit Shenoy, addressing the gathering, expressed alarm that the Election Commission, an institution meant to operate independently, now functions 'like the youth wing of the ruling party.' He alleged that the SIR process serves as a tool to remove poor citizens, religious minorities, and backward classes from voter lists, as these groups typically do not vote for the BJP. Shenoy criticized the 'harassment' of the public through demands for unnecessary documents. He further highlighted a perceived hypocrisy, stating that Sangh Parivar leaders advocate for secularism and democracy abroad, yet domestically 'wear the mask of Hindutva' and cater to the wealthy. Shenoy also pointed to India's leading position in beef exports, labeling central government policies as 'hypocritical.'
Idris Hoode, District President of the Welfare Party, asserted that the Election Commission conspires to dismantle the democratic system, betraying voters through the SIR process. He warned of a 'major conspiracy' unfolding in the country to gradually erode democracy and usher in a monarchy. Hoode claimed that recent elections have become 'mere farces' with predetermined outcomes.
Sanjeeva Balkur of the Dalit Hitarakshana Vedike condemned the SIR process as 'anti-constitutional and treasonous.' He emphasized that the act deprives citizens of their fundamental right to vote, a sacred right guaranteed by the constitution. Balkur demanded the immediate repeal of the SIR process, insisting it should have no retrospective effect.
Prominent figures present at the protest included Kushal, Welfare Party Vice President Vijaya Padukudru, social activist Charles Ambler, Anwar Ali Kapu, Aseef GD, Mumtaz Hoode, and Abdul Razak Nakwa. Abdul Azeez Udyavara compered the program.
Image: varthabharati.in
đź“° Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi