AAP Accuses BJP of Imposing ‘Black Emergency’ in Delhi, 600 Detained

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the BJP government of imposing a “black emergency” in New Delhi, alleging mass detentions and sweeping restrictions ahead of a protest by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). At least 600 people have been detained by police.

The protest was planned to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the voter list revision process. Authorities imposed strict security measures across the capital ahead of the demonstration.

On Saturday (October 10), AAP legislator Gopal Rai alleged that metro stations had been closed and train services cancelled to protect one individual. He said the central government had created a “black emergency” in the country instead of removing the chief election commissioner. He warned that the movement could not be suppressed by force. Indian news outlet NDTV reported the remarks.

Saurabh Bharadwaj, president of AAP’s Delhi unit, also criticised the government’s actions. In a video message, he said the protesters wanted to voice their demands peacefully, but the deployment of large numbers of security personnel had created an atmosphere of fear. He urged the government to engage in dialogue with young people rather than suppress them.

The CJP is demanding Kumar’s resignation over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The party had planned to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Saturday. However, several media reports said Delhi Police had denied permission for the demonstration.

Citing security concerns, authorities closed the entry and exit gates of 45 Delhi Metro stations from 9pm on October 9 until 6pm on October 10. Traffic restrictions were also imposed on several roads, barricades were erected and security checks were intensified. The measures disrupted travel for ordinary commuters.

Media reports, citing police, said at least 600 people had been detained in connection with the protest. Additional police personnel were deployed in key areas of the capital, and surveillance was stepped up. Some areas also reportedly experienced mobile internet disruptions.

Meanwhile, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal had earlier announced that he and his family members would join the CJP’s protest. Opposition parties allege that the voter list revision process is being used to remove voters’ names to give the ruling BJP an electoral advantage. The Election Commission and the BJP have denied the allegations.