A group of six protesters led by city-based social activist Narasimha Murthy staged a peaceful protest outside the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka, on Sunday (October 25, 2026), singing the national anthem while holding the national flag, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner of India Gyanesh Kumar.
The protest is part of an ongoing campaign seeking Mr. Kumar’s resignation. The group has vowed to continue the protest every Sunday until its demands are met.
Police personnel from Halasuru Gate police station arrived at the spot and objected to the singing of the national anthem, citing a violation of rules, according to the protesters. Protests are allowed only inside Freedom Park and not anywhere outside, maintain Bengaluru City Police. Over the last two weeks, civil society groups in Bengaluru have been demanding repealing this restriction and holding protests outside the venue.
A senior police officer asked the protesters to delete the recording of the protest, claiming that it violated the rules, Narasimha Murthy alleged. “We demanded that the officer give the direction in writing or state on record that we should not sing the national anthem,” he said. He maintained that the protest was peaceful, with no slogans, placards or buntings. “We are placing our demands peacefully through protest,” he added.
After completing the national anthem, the group walked to the Mysore Bank Circle, where they concluded the protest.
A police officer said security had been deployed around the CEO, Karnataka’s office since the protests began. Police personnel had been instructed to monitor the area and take action against any form of protest, the officer added.
Published - October 25, 2026 12:39 pm IST