Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Ruhullah Mehdi has called for a thorough review of all elections conducted under the supervision of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Mehdi’s demand comes in the wake of protests against Kumar in the national capital, which he likened to the experiences of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters, Mehdi stated that the country’s democracy is showing signs of revival after a period of suppression over the past decade. He noted that the objections and protests raised by students and concerned citizens regarding the Gyanesh Kumar issue indicate an effort to reclaim democratic space. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that Mehdi views these protests as a crucial step towards a more vibrant democracy.
The Srinagar MP drew parallels between the recent brief internet shutdown in Delhi and the year-long internet restriction imposed in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. While acknowledging that the severity might differ, he pointed out similarities in the state’s response, including the lockdown of the capital, detention of activists, and snapping of internet services. Mehdi asserted that the response to the current protests in Delhi bears resemblance to the treatment meted out to Kashmiris, who experienced an internet blackout for nearly a year. He emphasized that such actions, even if temporary, echo the suppression faced by residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
Mehdi further contended that despite the clampdown, protesters remain resolute in their demands, including the resignation of a CEC he described as “compromised.” He went on to state that not only should Kumar resign, but criminal proceedings should also be initiated against him. The MP stressed that all elections held under his oversight should be subject to a comprehensive review and reassessment. According to Mehdi, these protests represent a collective attempt to “reclaim the country and democracy” from an environment of intimidation fostered by the BJP. He believes that the emergence of a movement seeking accountability against authoritarianism offers the only hope for the survival of constitutionalism and democracy in India.
Adding to his concerns, Mehdi highlighted reports of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) being invoked against some activists involved in the protests. He commended these activists for standing against what he termed “dictatorship” and for their continued demonstration. Mehdi’s remarks underscore a growing sentiment that the current political climate necessitates active citizen engagement to safeguard democratic principles.
The Lok Sabha MP also addressed the hostile atmosphere faced by Kashmiris in other parts of the country, citing the recent stoning of Jammu and Kashmir-bound buses in Haryana as an example. He reiterated his long-held view, expressed since 2019, that the environment for residents of Jammu and Kashmir has been deliberately polarized and made hostile, both within the region and across other states. Mehdi argued that Kashmiris have been subjected to degradation and disenfranchisement, both legally and constitutionally, and are often viewed with suspicion even within their own territory. He suggested that this widespread hostility contributes to a fractured national landscape, hindering genuine integration and mutual understanding.
Mehdi’s statements come at a time of heightened political discourse surrounding electoral processes and civil liberties in India. His call for a review of past elections under CEC Kumar’s tenure, coupled with his critique of the government’s response to protests, signals a significant challenge to the established electoral framework and the perceived erosion of democratic norms. The comparison drawn between the Delhi protests and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is particularly noteworthy, suggesting a broader pattern of state response to dissent. The implications of these demands and the ongoing protests could have far-reaching consequences for the future of democratic accountability and the protection of civil rights in the country.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.