Key facts
- UN experts called for an independent investigation into India's conduct during recent protests.
- Demonstrators reportedly sustained injuries and some reported ill-treatment.
- Law enforcement agencies reportedly used lathi charges against unarmed students.
- Protesting groups claim the removal of 130 million names from voter lists disenfranchised eligible voters, disproportionately affecting the poor, homeless, and minorities.
UN experts called on Tuesday for an independent investigation into Indian authorities' conduct during a recent crackdown on protests, where they stated demonstrators had sustained injuries and some reported being subjected to ill-treatment. Opposition political parties and student organizations have been protesting this month, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over a revision of voter lists that they allege favors Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. The experts stated that law enforcement agencies reportedly deployed force against unarmed students, including lathi charges, and prevented thousands from joining the protests. They urged authorities to immediately cease the use of excessive force, rescind assembly bans, and refrain from misusing digital surveillance and internet disruptions. India has repeatedly dismissed such criticism as interference in its internal affairs. Protesting groups claim the removal of 130 million names from voter lists led to eligible voters being disenfranchised, disproportionately affecting the poor, homeless, and minorities, which the BJP and Election Commission deny. The Election Commission states it is removing ineligible voters and that appeals can be pursued for errors.