New Delhi: Human rights activist Dr Charanjit Singh has made an international appeal for an independent investigation into alleged violations of civil liberties and the right to peaceful protest in India. He has urged constitutional bodies, United Nations institutions, diplomatic missions and human rights organisations to examine the concerns raised in his appeal.
According to a nine-page email copy, Singh sent the appeal at 12:51 PM on October 10, 2026. The communication highlights concerns about alleged restrictions on peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, arbitrary detention and compliance with constitutional and international human rights standards.
The appeal refers to protests in Delhi over alleged electoral irregularities. It raises questions about police deployment, reported arrests, possible internet restrictions, disruptions to rail and metro services, and the treatment of journalists and human rights defenders.
The letter claims that authorities deployed approximately 50,000 police personnel during the events. However, this figure and the other allegations mentioned in the appeal have not been independently verified.
Singh has called on the President of India, the Supreme Court, the National Human Rights Commission, the Election Commission and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to consider the matter within their respective mandates. He has also sought a review of the treatment of detained individuals, their legal rights and the administrative decisions linked to the protests.
Constitutional and International Human Rights Concerns
The activist has cited Articles 14, 19, 21 and 22 of the Indian Constitution while highlighting equality before the law, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and personal liberty. He has also referred to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The appeal calls for police action to remain lawful, necessary and proportionate. It also seeks an impartial assessment of any internet restrictions, decisions affecting public transport and complaints related to electoral irregularities.
Singh has urged international news agencies and independent journalists to investigate the claims using official documents, eyewitness accounts, photographs and verified videos. He has also stressed the importance of seeking responses from the authorities before publishing allegations as established facts.
The available email record documents the sending of the appeal and includes a list of recipients. However, independent confirmation of successful delivery to approximately 500 recipients or any subsequent institutional action was not available.
Singh has called for an impartial examination of the complaints, stating that investigators should establish the facts and address any proven violation of rights in accordance with the law.
