Indian authorities detain thousands ahead of anti-government protest

On October 10, 2026, Indian authorities implemented extensive security measures in New Delhi and Mumbai to prevent a major anti-government demonstration. Over 25,000 police officers were deployed, while officials closed approximately 50 metro stations, restricted mobile internet access, and suspended train services to major New Delhi stations for 10 hours. Security forces detained over 2,000 protesters in New Delhi and an additional 400 in Mumbai. Among those apprehended were prominent figures from the 'Cockroach' movement, including founder Abhijeet Dipke and senior leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, as well as social media influencer Dhruv Rathee.

The demonstrations were organized to demand the resignation of the head of the Indian Election Commission. Following their arrests upon arrival in New Delhi on Saturday, Dipke and two other leaders were brought before a judge. A court subsequently ordered their release on the condition that they do not disturb the peace for one year. Influencer Dhruv Rathee was also released shortly after midnight on the condition that he refrains from participating in further protests. Despite these releases, New Delhi faces a second day of planned demonstrations, maintaining a state of high tension.