Actor Prakash Raj slams train cancellations and detentions ahead of Delhi protest

Actor Prakash Raj has strongly criticized the cancellation of trains and detention of citizens ahead of a planned protest in New Delhi. Nearly two dozen trains connecting Uttar Pradesh to New Delhi have been cancelled ahead of the October 10 demonstration called by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar.

Police Action And Protests

The Delhi Police denied permission for the proposed protest, citing short notice, past violations of undertakings, and failure to follow lawful directions during an earlier gathering. Activists and citizens travelling to Delhi to demand the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged election malpractices reported facing harassment and illegal detentions. Pune students affiliated with the All India Students' Federation alleged the Government Railway Police tried to detain them at Bhusawal and Itarsi stations. Delhi Police have also increased security across central Delhi.

Prakash Raj's Reaction

Prakash Raj posted a video addressing the developments, recalling a famous dialogue from his movie Singham where he played the antagonist Jaykant Shikre. He accused authorities of trying to stop citizens from protesting by cancelling trains, picking up people from their homes, and arresting them. He recently participated in a civil society protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru alongside YouTuber Dhruv Rathee and CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke.

Context

Public demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi are frequently subject to strict police permissions and security measures. High-profile political protests often draw participation from various student groups, civil society members, and public figures from across the country.