Thousands March in Delhi Demanding Election Chief's Resignation Over Voter Roll Allegations

Thousands of opposition supporters took to the streets of Delhi in a “March for Democracy,” converging on the Supreme Court to demand the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner. The protest, organized by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition parties, centers on accusations of fraud in the revision of voter rolls, with millions of names reportedly removed.

Opposition parties allege that the extensive removal of names from the voter rolls is a deliberate tactic to benefit Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a charge both the BJP and the Election Commission deny.

Rahul Gandhi submitted a petition to the court challenging the process, urging all democratic forces to join the demonstration. He shared a letter with the Chief Justice outlining concerns about the conduct of the Chief Election Commissioner. The court acknowledged the petition, stating the matter was sub judice but assuring it would be heard promptly.

Security was significantly heightened in the capital, with roads barricaded and numerous security forces deployed. Attempts by protest groups, such as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), to hold demonstrations in the preceding days led to the detention of thousands of protesters. Restrictions were imposed on public transport, and several metro stations were shut down.

During the march, opposition leaders, including Gandhi, addressed supporters from atop vehicles. Protesters expressed their determination, with one stating, “If they take away our right to vote, what is left with us?” The march is seen by many as a crucial fight for the integrity of India’s democratic process.

Reports from the weekend’s detentions included footage of police forcefully removing protesters, including women. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the detention of at least 16 journalists covering the events, calling the actions against the press unacceptable. Gandhi stated that young, peaceful protesters were subjected to violence.

In response to the broader protests, the Home Ministry announced that demonstrations would no longer be permitted at the traditional Jantar Mantar protest site. The BJP President accused opposition parties of attempting to destabilize the country with foreign backing.

Source: Nile Post