Demonstrators in India have called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing the election authority of using controversial voter-list changes to disenfranchise legitimate voters.
• The protests center on a voter-verification drive that critics say could remove millions of names, particularly in opposition-ruled states and among migrants, low-income residents and marginalized communities.
• Protesters used a “cockroach” label to condemn the election chief, reflecting anger over what they describe as an opaque and politically motivated process.
• Opposition parties have demanded greater transparency, independent oversight and more time for voters to challenge deletions from electoral rolls.
• Election officials maintain that the review is intended to eliminate duplicate or ineligible registrations and strengthen the accuracy of voter lists.
• The dispute comes as India prepares for major electoral contests, raising concerns about public confidence in the neutrality and administration of the world’s largest democracy.
The Election Commission has defended its procedures, while critics are pressing India’s courts and political institutions to scrutinize the changes and protect eligible voters from being excluded.