Protests were organised across Karnataka on Wednesday against alleged arbitrary deletion of voter names from electoral rolls under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
The demonstrations were led by ‘My Vote, My Right’, a coalition of civil society groups, unions and activists, who described the exercise as a threat to democratic rights.
Statewide protests reported
Demonstrations reportedly took place in several districts, including Bengaluru, Bidar, Kodagu, Udupi, Mysuru, Raichur, Belagavi and Tumakuru.
In Bengaluru, protesters gathered near Vidhana Soudha, raising slogans and calling for protection of voting rights.
Allegations of large-scale deletions
The coalition claimed that voter names had been removed in multiple states, alleging that marginalised communities were disproportionately affected.
Activists argued that such deletions could influence election outcomes and weaken public trust in the democratic process.
Demand for intervention
Protesters urged the Karnataka government to oppose the process and sought intervention from the Supreme Court of India.
They also demanded transparency, verification mechanisms and safeguards before any voter names are removed from rolls.
Voting rights at centre
The protests underline growing sensitivity around electoral integrity and citizen participation ahead of future polls.
Observers say voter roll accuracy is vital, but fairness and due process remain equally important.