The opposition 'INDIA' bloc is intensifying its protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar today with a massive march towards the Supreme Court of India. Led by senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, the alliance aims to highlight the critical issue of 'vote theft' and demand significant electoral reforms. This 'Chalo Delhi' call has mobilized various political factions, civil society groups, and the youth to converge in the national capital to voice their concerns regarding the integrity of the democratic process.
Prominent Leaders to Join the March
The protest is expected to see a significant gathering of political heavyweights. Along with Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav will be a key participant in the march to the Supreme Court, while the list of attendees includes prominent names such as Tejashwi Yadav from the RJD, Sanjay Raut from Shiv Sena (UBT), Supriya Sule from NCP (Sharad Pawar), D Raja from the CPI, MA Baby from the CPM, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. This collective participation underscores the unity within the INDIA alliance on the issue of electoral transparency.
CJI Surya Kant's Response to the Meeting Request
Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge had formally requested a meeting with the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant between 4 and 5 PM today. Their objective was to submit a memorandum addressing 'vote theft', demanding the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, seeking a halt to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and advocating for a return to the paper ballot system. However, CJI Surya Kant declined the request to meet on the administrative side. He noted that similar matters are already sub-judice in the Supreme Court, while the CJI suggested that the Congress leaders should file a petition on the judicial side, which could potentially be heard on Tuesday. He emphasized that the Supreme Court remains open 24x7 for all citizens if their fundamental rights are violated, but it can't interfere in the functioning of the executive on the administrative side.
Logistics and Metro Station Closures
In anticipation of the march, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced significant restrictions. Entry and exit points at six major metro stations will remain closed from 6 AM to 4 PM today. The affected stations are:
- Patel Chowk
- Janpath
- Rajiv Chowk
- Mandi House
- Central Secretariat
- Barakhamba Road
Rahul Gandhi's Call for Unity and Allegations Against BJP
Rahul Gandhi took to social media to rally support for the march, titled 'Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy'. He stated that the march is being conducted by Indians who are united beyond party, gender, caste, community, and state lines, while he alleged that during a peaceful protest on Saturday, youth were beaten by both the police and 'BJP goons'. Gandhi asserted that leaders like Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Ajit Doval, and Mohan Bhagwat can't suppress the voice of India. He called for a march filled with love, brotherhood, and patriotism, urging citizens not to be afraid, while 30 PM before proceeding towards the Supreme Court.
Kharge Criticizes Government Over Security Deployment
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his concerns in Bengaluru, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of creating anarchy across the country. He described the current situation as an 'undeclared emergency'. Highlighting the heavy security presence in Delhi, Kharge noted that approximately 32,000 police personnel and 7,500 CRPF personnel were deployed on Saturday. He argued that such a massive deployment reflects the government's fear of the youth movement. Kharge reiterated that the opposition's fight is for the protection of democracy and the constitutional rights of the people.
Internal Conflict Within the Election Commission
The aggressive stance of the opposition follows reports of internal friction within the Election Commission. According to a report by 'The Indian Express', Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had recorded their objections at least 14 times over the past 10 months. These objections reportedly included concerns over the 'Special Intensive Revision' (SIR) of electoral rolls. This internal dissent has provided further impetus to the INDIA alliance's joint action plan, which includes rallies and the 'Save Democracy' march. Leaders like KC Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh have also condemned the use of force against protesters and journalists, labeling the government's actions as an attack on the foundations of democracy.