Having experienced Jantar Mantar protests, several demonstrators wanted newcomers to be better prepared for a gathering expected to face heavy security and possible police action. While some prepared their posters at home, others created digital posters showcasing alleged illegal detention and lack of name tags on the cops.
Moreover, their planning was such that they would tell you what to bring along in case things get worse. The protesters advised bringing along masks, swimming goggles, raincoats, and even wet weather-appropriate clothing because of an anticipated lathi charge by the police.
“We had participated in the July protest, so this time we wanted people joining the demonstration to be better prepared. Many of us have also been making political artwork and posters at home for people to carry during the protest,” a participant said.
Protest veterans turn artwork into messages of resistance
Hardik, who had participated in previous demonstrations, created digital political artwork ahead of Saturday’s protest. His designs focused on alleged illegal detentions and concerns about police personnel not wearing identification name tags.
He also prepared posters offering practical advice to demonstrators, including carrying masks, swimming goggles and raincoats.
“As we fight for the freedom we once celebrated in cinema, we remember the tears our nation shed as our forefathers fought an exploitative regime. Today, we carry the torch of non-violence through the dark alleys of fascism once again,” Hardik said.He added that concerns about the safety of his women friends had strengthened his resolve to participate.
Hardik had also joined protests demanding the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. The July 20 march to Parliament drew political leaders, actors and members of the public. The agitation continued for more than a month before protesters dispersed following Pradhan’s resignation.
Saturday’s demonstration had a different target. The CJP called for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation over allegations of voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and irregularities involving Form 6, used for voter registration.
The allegations remain claims made by the protesters.
Posters carry the protest beyond Jantar Mantar
The intended demonstration in Jantar Mantar was not able to materialise on a large scale after the Delhi Police denied permission due to insufficient notice, along with concerns regarding rule adherence during the previous protest.
It has been reported that barricades along with stringent security measures hindered the marchers’ attempt to reach the venue, and the demonstrators were stopped at various places. About 25,000 police personnel have been deployed in the capital, and entry and exit measures were imposed on 45 metro stations. It has also been reported that some reporters have been detained, despite having press cards.
For returning protesters, the experience was markedly different from July. Finding fellow demonstrators became difficult, with updates circulating largely through social media.
“Last time, we were stationed at Jantar Mantar and then had to march. This time, there is so much confusion about when and where to come,” another protester said, adding that the demonstration would continue despite the difficulties.
Praveen, another participant, said posters and artwork remained a way to communicate political demands even when protesters could not assemble in one place.
Indian flags and slogans such as “You can stop us, not democracy” and “Nagrikta par hamla band karo” appeared at different locations.
Although Jantar Mantar remained largely inaccessible, the artwork and preparations revealed how lessons from July had shaped Saturday’s demonstration, with experienced protesters helping newcomers navigate an uncertain day on Delhi’s streets.
(With PTI inputs)
