John Brittas Dragged Away by Central Forces ; Protesters Brutally Beaten Inside Police Van

New Delhi: Delhi Police carried out widespread arrests and detentions, in what was described as serious human rights violations, to suppress the ‘Jantar Mantar 2.0’ protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over interference in the electoral process and removal of crores of voters.

John Brittas, CPI(M)’s leader in the Rajya Sabha, was dragged away and taken into custody by central police personnel, before releasing him. While Brittas was speaking to the media, around 50 police personnel surrounded him and detained him. The MP was subjected to brutal assault, according to reports.

Protesters taken into custody in police vehicles were also brutally beaten. Several people reportedly lost consciousness in the assault.

Earlier in the morning, Delhi Police had used force against the student and youth protest at Connaught Place. Police launched an attack on a joint demonstration organised by SFI, AISF, DYFI and CJP activists.

Several protesters, including SFI All India president Adarsh M Saji, were injured. DYFI leader Jaick C Thomas was dragged along the road before being taken into custody.

The central government, which fears peaceful protests, had effectively shut down the city in the name of security. Police then used force against students who had gathered to protest. Students staging a sit-in on the road were dragged away by central forces and police. Women protesters were also detained after police grabbed them by the neck.