New Delhi: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has criticised the security restrictions imposed in Delhi amid protests over alleged electoral irregularities, questioning the detention of protesters and the curbs on public movement.
In a statement, Tharoor said he returned to the national capital after 2 am and was struck by the scale of the security arrangements, including checkpoints, concrete barricades and spike strips on roads.
He cited reports of a large deployment of police and paramilitary personnel, cancellation of trains, closure of metro stations and detention of young people from their homes and streets. He also criticised the reported suspension of internet services in parts of central Delhi.
Tharoor said the restrictions had severely curtailed freedom of movement and questioned why access to Jantar Mantar, a designated site for public demonstrations, had been restricted. He also asked whether similar urgency was shown in addressing women’s safety concerns in the capital.
Calling for the release of those detained, he questioned whether authorities would impose similar restrictions if protesters returned on Monday.
Tharoor argued that a government confident in the fairness of the electoral process should welcome questions rather than respond with extensive security measures. He said the government should provide answers to allegations concerning the integrity of elections instead of relying on force and restrictions.
He added that barricades alone would not restore public confidence in the Election Commission and urged authorities to address the concerns raised by protesters.
