India SIR Protests, Opposition Demands CEC’s Resignation

India’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) has led to protests across the country. Opposition parties and several groups are demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The issue has raised concerns about voter rights and the fairness of elections.

Demonstrators protest against the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in New Delhi on October 23, 2026.

Why India SIR Protests Are Growing Across the Country

The SIR is a process to check and update voter lists. The Election Commission says it aims to remove duplicate names and entries of deceased or ineligible voters. However, opposition parties fear that eligible voters could also lose their names from the lists.

Protests have taken place in Delhi and other parts of the country. On October 23, demonstrators marched against the SIR process. Police stopped a march towards the Election Commission’s office in Delhi and detained more than 100 people. Protesters demanded that the exercise be stopped and Kumar resign.

Police detain demonstrators during a march against the SIR process near the Election Commission headquarters in New Delhi on October 23, 2026.

INDIA Bloc Plans Mock Parliament and Rally

The INDIA bloc has also planned further action. Opposition leaders are preparing a mock Parliament session on October 28 to raise their concerns about Kumar. A joint rally is also planned for November 1.

The dispute has started a wider debate about trust in India’s election system. Opposition parties want a fair and transparent process. The Election Commission says the revision is needed to keep voter lists accurate. The main concern is whether the process can protect every eligible citizen’s right to vote.