In a powerful display of dissent, cities across India witnessed widespread protests today as a diverse array of activists, human rights organisations, and concerned citizens joined forces to denounce the alleged misuse of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to silence women and stifle government critics.

From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the historic lanes of Kolkata and the capital city of New Delhi, the protests reverberated with calls for justice and the preservation of democratic values. Thousands of protesters, holding placards and banners, congregated in iconic public spaces, expressing their collective outrage at what they view as a brazen attempt to curtail freedom of expression.

The focus of the demonstrations was the purported targeting of women activists and government critics by the Enforcement Directorate, an agency primarily tasked with investigating financial crimes. Protesters argue that the ED’s involvement in cases against individuals critical of the government amounts to an abuse of power, impeding the functioning of democracy and suppressing dissenting voices.

Voicing her concerns, prominent activist [Name] asserted, “We cannot remain silent as the very foundations of our democracy are under threat. The misuse of the Enforcement Directorate to silence women and government critics is an attack on our fundamental rights and must be vehemently condemned.”

The protests gained momentum with the active participation of various civil society groups, students, and concerned citizens from all walks of life. Demonstrators expressed apprehension over the chilling effect such actions could have on free speech and emphasised the importance of protecting the right to dissent.