The opposition INDIA bloc has announced a significant protest in New Delhi for Monday, October 12, as part of its intensified campaign to protect voting rights and highlight alleged irregularities within the electoral process.
Congress general secretary K.C. Venugopal confirmed the upcoming demonstration, stating that the alliance is determined to continue its agitation to safeguard citizens' voting rights and ensure the integrity of India's electoral system. The protest follows ongoing concerns raised by the opposition regarding the Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Concerns Over Electoral Roll Revisions
The INDIA bloc has consistently voiced its apprehensions about the SIR exercise, alleging that the revision process could unfairly impact eligible voters. This issue has become a major point of contention between the opposition parties and the ruling BJP-led government, with the bloc demanding greater accountability from the ECI.
According to Venugopal, the opposition alliance recently conveyed its concerns directly to President Droupadi Murmu. The bloc is also scheduled to meet Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on the day of the protest, October 12, to present its case regarding the alleged irregularities.
Accusations Against Government Officials
In a strong statement, Venugopal accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of attempting to shield Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He suggested that the government's defensive response to the opposition's campaign indicates unease over the growing protests.
"PM Modi is behaving like a leader nearing his downfall. He is afraid of the opposition's protests," Venugopal alleged, as per a PTI report. He further claimed that measures, such as the closure of metro stations, were being considered to manage the anticipated influx of protesters. Venugopal affirmed that the Congress and the INDIA bloc would persist in their struggle until the electoral process is deemed free and fair.