Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi Stage Protest at Akashvani Amid Police Detention

On October 6, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi led a protest at Akashvani Bhawan in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner. Despite police attempts to detain them, the leaders managed to stage a sit-in for eight hours. This article delves into the events of the day, including the initial march towards the Election Commission, the police's response, and the eventual release of the detained leaders. Discover how the protest unfolded and the implications it holds for the opposition's stance on electoral issues.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 7, 2026, 10:16 IST

Protest Escalates in New Delhi

On October 6, a significant turn of events unfolded during the INDIA bloc's protest in New Delhi when police began detaining demonstrators and loading them onto buses. At this moment, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra arrived at the Akashvani Bhawan complex and initiated a sit-in. The two leaders remained at the site for approximately eight hours.

Attempt to March to Election Commission

The members and leaders of the INDIA bloc attempted to march from Parliament to the Election Commission headquarters. They were voicing demands for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and addressing various electoral issues. However, police intervened and halted their progress, prompting several leaders to sit down on the road.

Priyanka Gandhi Detained

During the protest, law enforcement began detaining several leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi, who was placed on a bus. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi made his way towards the reception gate of Akashvani Bhawan and managed to enter the premises. Shortly after, Priyanka Gandhi also exited the bus and joined her brother in the protest.

Sit-In Under a Tree

Alongside Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, other Congress and opposition leaders gathered at the Akashvani Bhawan. Mats and cushions were laid out, and the sit-in commenced. As time passed, the protest continued to extend.

Opposition's Demand for Meeting

Rahul Gandhi expressed that opposition MPs wished to meet with the Election Commission to present their grievances directly to the commissioners. He emphasized the need to continue the protest. In response, the Election Commission stated that they had not received any requests for a meeting from any political party.

Confrontation Continues into the Evening

The sit-in, which began in the afternoon, persisted until evening. Police urged the protesters to vacate the premises, but Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and their fellow leaders remained seated. After approximately eight hours, law enforcement initiated actions to disperse the demonstrators.

Detention and Release of Leaders

According to police reports, a significant number of individuals were detained during the protest. Approximately 250 people were taken into custody, including around 50 MPs. Subsequently, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and other leaders were also detained and transported to New Police Lines, Kingsway Camp.

Leaders Released After Detention

Shortly after their detention, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and several other opposition leaders were released by the police. The Congress party raised questions regarding this action, while the Delhi police stated that the measures were taken to maintain law and order and public safety during the protest.

Key Takeaway from the Incident

The most talked-about aspect of this incident was how Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi managed to reach the Akashvani Bhawan complex amidst the police's strategy of detaining leaders. They successfully staged a sit-in for several hours before the police ultimately intervened and ended the protest.