"Govt cannot simply remain spectator": Pralhad Joshi defends Delhi security measures
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi defends Delhi security curbs, calling protests a political drama while Congress slams the move as an attempt to murder democracy.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has issued a strong defense of the security measures implemented in the national capital, asserting that the government cannot remain a passive observer when faced with lawlessness and the destruction of public property. Speaking to reporters, the Minister dismissed ongoing demonstrations as mere "political drama" orchestrated by those unable to accept electoral outcomes.
Security Measures and Judicial Guidance
Addressing the recent crackdown and transit restrictions in Delhi, Joshi emphasized that authorities are obligated to act when public safety is at risk. He noted that the operational protocols currently in place are subject to both administrative and judicial review.
Regarding specific restrictions on metro services, the Minister highlighted the role of the judiciary. "The Chief Justice has called for reasonable restrictions. Delhi Police will decide the necessary measures. Safety is equally important," Joshi stated, reinforcing the government's stance that maintaining order is paramount.
Political Friction and Electoral Momentum
The Minister’s comments come amid a heated political climate. While defending the state's actions, Joshi also commented on the BJP's electoral trajectory, suggesting that the party's winning momentum is expected to extend into states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Goa. He further attributed the BJP's growth in West Bengal to the alleged corruption and misrule of the Mamata Banerjee administration.
Opposition Slams "Attempt to Murder Democracy"
The government's stance has met fierce resistance from the opposition. In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Congress president Aradhana Mishra Mona launched a scathing critique of the security curbs and preventive detentions. She described the heavy deployment of security personnel and movement restrictions as an "attempt to murder democracy."
Mishra alleged that the restrictions—which included train cancellations and vehicle stoppages at toll plazas—demonstrated a sense of panic within the BJP. "This reflects a thoroughly frightened BJP," she remarked, adding that the current atmosphere contradicts the constitutional right to protest.
Protests and Detentions in Delhi
The political confrontation has intensified due to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) calling for the 'Jantar Mantar 2.0' protest. The demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and are opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The protest has already seen significant friction between activists and law enforcement. Reports indicate that Delhi Police have continued to detain activists, citing a lack of legal sanction for the protest. In one instance, CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke reported being detained alongside his associates immediately upon deboarding a flight from Mumbai at the Delhi Airport.