Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has launched a scathing attack on the central government and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar amidst ongoing protests in the national capital. Gandhi alleged that the government has transformed Delhi into a virtual fortress to shield the CEC from public accountability. He pointed out the massive deployment of security forces across the city, suggesting that such measures are a clear indication of the government's desperation to protect Gyanesh Kumar from the anger of the citizens who are protesting against alleged electoral irregularities.
The Siege of Delhi and Police Deployment
Rahul Gandhi observed that people are being prevented from entering Delhi as the administration has tightened security to an unprecedented level. He remarked that the entire city has been turned into a fortress with police personnel stationed at every corner. Gandhi stated that the opposition actually wants 20000 to 30000 police personnel to be deployed because it serves as a visual testament to how the government is shielding Gyanesh Kumar. He claimed that this massive security cover isn't for public safety but specifically to protect the CEC. During his interactions with Delhi Police personnel, Gandhi claimed that nearly 50 percent of the police force is internally supportive of the opposition's cause, telling him that what they're doing is right and necessary for the country.
Discontent Within the Administration
The Congress leader further asserted that people within the police and administration are deeply dissatisfied with the current government's orders. According to Gandhi, police officers have expressed their reluctance to use force against young protesters, questioning why they're being made to assault children. He accused members of the BJP and RSS of committing atrocities against youth while the government attempts to suppress the movement against what he termed as vote theft. Gandhi questioned why Gyanesh Kumar has not resigned yet and criticized the government for not providing a designated space for the protest, noting that they aren't even being allowed to reach Jantar Mantar.
Direct Warning to the Chief Election Commissioner
In a direct and stern warning, Rahul Gandhi stated that Gyanesh Kumar won't be able to escape accountability. He claimed to be aware of the CEC's mental state, suggesting that he's unable to sleep at night due to the weight of his actions. Gandhi accused the CEC of stripping away the rights of millions of people, leading to widespread public questioning. He addressed the CEC directly, saying that they know about his past and his alleged corruption. Gandhi emphasized that the attack on the Constitution won't be tolerated and that this movement isn't a one-day event but a continuous struggle. He added that even the police are questioning why they're being forced to protect someone they perceive as a thief.
Allegations of Institutional Hijacking
Rahul Gandhi drew a sharp line between two sides of the current political landscape, while on one side, he placed the police, ITBP, CRPF, and the people of India. On the other side, he named Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, CEC Gyanesh Kumar, and 4 to 5 members of the Election Commission. He accused this latter group of facilitating vote theft and effectively kidnapping the country's democratic process. Gandhi stated that the opposition is intentionally highlighting this division. He reiterated the questions previously raised by two other election commissioners, asking why Gyanesh Kumar continues to hold his position despite the allegations.
Legal Battle in the Supreme Court
The confrontation is now moving to the highest court of the land. Rahul Gandhi revealed that he and the Congress President had written a letter to the Chief Justice of India (CJI) expressing grave concerns over the alleged murder of Indian democracy and the lack of fairness in elections. The CJI responded by directing them to file a formal petition, while consequently, Gandhi announced that he, along with other leaders of the INDIA bloc, will visit the Supreme Court today at 3 PM to file this petition. He described this legal move as a fight for the very future of the country.
Claims of Insider Information
In a significant claim, Rahul Gandhi stated that the opposition is receiving internal information from within the government machinery. He claimed that 200 officers from various departments, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and the Ministry of External Affairs, are in contact with them. These officials are allegedly providing details about the government's inner workings. Gandhi challenged the government to take whatever action they wish, asserting that the truth is on the side of the opposition and that they're well-informed about the government's activities.