Prakash Raj throws his weight behind Bengaluru’s “Chappal Protest”

Acclaimed actor‑activist Prakash Raj has confirmed that he will take part in the demonstration scheduled for 8 October at Freedom Park, Bengaluru. Organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), the event is being promoted as a “Chappal Protest” aimed at two urgent issues: the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the protection of women in public arenas.

People’s Tribunal on SIR – 10:30 a.m.

The day will open with a People’s Tribunal at 10:30 a.m., giving a platform to voters from across Karnataka who claim they were unfairly removed from the rolls. CJP co‑convener Ashutosh Ranka, founder Abhijeet Dipke and spokesperson Saurav Das are slated to moderate, alongside representatives of youth collectives and civil‑society groups.

Key complaints against the SIR drive

  • Alleged wrongful deletion of eligible voters during the roll‑revision process.
  • Demand for reinstatement of the deleted names and restoration of pre‑SIR rolls.
  • Call for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to resign over alleged irregularities.

Protesters emphasise that these allegations are based on personal testimonies and have not yet been independently verified by any authority.

Women’s safety moves to the fore

After the tribunal, the focus will shift to women’s safety. The move follows accusations by a group of women journalists in Delhi who said they were mistreated while covering protests against the Chief Election Commissioner. CJP has expressed solidarity with the journalists and urged swift remedial action. The Delhi Police, however, disputes the claims of forceful handling and says the matter is under investigation.

Broader campaign and next steps

The Bengaluru rally forms part of a larger CJP‑led movement opposing the SIR exercise. Similar protests have taken place in other states, and another demonstration is slated for Jantar Mantar, New Delhi on 10 October. Organisers continue to demand transparent handling of voter‑roll revisions, opposition to the SIR mechanism, and the resignation of the chief election official.

The Election Commission maintains that the roll‑revision exercise is intended to update voter records and ensure that all eligible citizens are captured. The Freedom Park event is expected to attract a diverse mix of voters, activists, youth groups and civil‑society members, all seeking a public stage for their grievances.