Supreme Court on Thursday ordered the preservation of CCTV footage from Delhi’s October 10 protest against the Election Commission and issued notices to the Centre and opposition leaders. Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, hearing the case, said the court would examine the petitions and could issue further orders.
The protests erupted after the Election Commission announced a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, a move challenged by Rahul Gandhi and other India bloc leaders. They seek access to official records, an independent audit of voter deletions, and suspension of the SIR until adjudication.
The bench also directed no coercive action against journalist Rosy, who was reportedly assaulted during the march. Senior advocate Indira Jaising filed a petition seeking temporary protection, and the court agreed to grant it if Rosy cooperates with the investigation.
Delhi Police Commissioner instructed stations to preserve all footage and send it to headquarters. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench that the police had begun the process and will submit the material soon.
The court will review the petitions in the coming days and could appoint a nodal officer to coordinate the matters.