Mumbai Protest Clashes: Police Detain Many at Shivaji Park

Mumbai witnessed a day of heightened tension on Sunday, October 11, 2026, as police detained numerous individuals gathered near Shivaji Park in Dadar. The assembly was organized to protest and demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, as well as the withdrawal of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

According to protesters, Mumbai Police personnel were deployed heavily around Shivaji Park, preventing them from reaching the designated protest site. Demonstrators alleged that entry was denied through multiple gates, and many were detained even before they could join the protest. Disturbingly, some attendees claimed that even individuals merely standing or walking in the area were taken into custody without clear reason.

Among those reportedly detained were prominent activist Tushar Gandhi and Imran Khan, part of a larger group of an estimated 600 individuals. Tushar Gandhi was also among 12 people later named in an FIR related to the demonstration. Shafqat Khan, a protester, described how they were blocked from entering the park, stating, "We came to Dadar for the protest, but we were not allowed to enter through Gate No. 6.

We tried other gates as well, but were stopped everywhere.

He further alleged that innocent bystanders were also swept up in the detentions. Another demonstrator, Meera Shah from Mulund, shared that she was motivated to join after seeing reports of police action against protesters in Delhi, emphasizing her stance

for India" and the need to protect democracy.

Concerns were raised about the conduct of the police, with several protesters alleging excessive force and aggressive behavior. Manya Yadav, 24, whose name was changed for privacy, claimed male police personnel dragged demonstrators by their shirts and verbally abused them. She recounted being detained for over an hour and also alleged that police filmed women as they exited vehicles.

Detainees expressed confusion and frustration, stating they were not given clear reasons for their arrests, even when they complied with police instructions.

Chetan Patil, another protester, criticized the detentions, highlighting the widespread demand for the cancellation of SIR and the CEC's resignation.

Leslie D'Souza questioned the government's response, accusing authorities of attempting to suppress dissent and avoid public accountability.

The events at Shivaji Park have sparked significant debate regarding freedom of assembly, democratic rights, and police practices in handling public demonstrations. #MumbaiProtest #ShivajiPark #CECGyaneshKumar