New Delhi, Oct 10 (KNS): Ladakh-based activist Sonam Wangchuk on Saturday threatened to launch a hunger strike or undertake a foot march if political leaders and activists detained during protests against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar in New Delhi were not released by Sunday.

In a video message shared on social media, Wangchuk expressed concern over the reported detention of several opposition leaders and activists, including Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee.

The detentions came as political leaders and protesters attempted to march towards Jantar Mantar against alleged irregularities in the functioning of the Election Commission, particularly the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Wangchuk, who had extended his support to the demonstration, described the police action as an "undeclared emergency" and questioned the restrictions imposed on protesters.

"Yesterday when I posted a message appealing for unity and peace in today's protest, I had never imagined that the biggest democracy in the world would be under an undeclared EMERGENCY," he wrote.

The Ladakhi activist said he had been unable to physically participate in the demonstration but had expected several political leaders to lead the agitation.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

"I was happy there were so many leaders to lead the movement, but I now learn that they have all been arrested," Wangchuk said.

Expressing hope that those detained would be released soon, he warned that he would be "compelled to consider an Anshan Fast or Padyatra March" if they were not freed by Sunday.

The warning comes amid heightened security arrangements in New Delhi, where police detained several protesters and political figures during demonstrations against the Election Commission.

Delhi Police had denied permission for the planned protest at Jantar Mantar, citing security and public-order concerns.

The controversy centres on opposition allegations of irregularities in the SIR exercise and demands for the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner.

The Election Commission has rejected allegations of electoral manipulation and maintained that the revision exercise is being conducted in accordance with established procedures.

Wangchuk has not announced a specific date or venue for the proposed hunger strike or foot march, making his next course of action dependent on the release of the detained leaders and activists. (KNS)