Rahul Gandhi Leads Opposition March to Supreme Court: A Fight for Democracy
Opposition's Bold Move Against Election Commission
New Delhi: On Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi announced that leaders from the INDIA coalition will march to the Supreme Court to file a petition against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging 'vote theft'.
During a press briefing at the Congress headquarters, Gandhi claimed that around 200 government officials were providing them with insider information.
He urged the CEC to resign and cooperate, stating that the opposition's struggle is against the larger powers influencing him.
"Resign and become an approver; you (Kumar) have erred, but you are not the mastermind behind this error," he remarked.
Gandhi expressed concern for Kumar's well-being, stating, "We know Gyanesh Kumar is restless; I directly tell him, 'you will not remain as CEC'."
He acknowledged past resistance but emphasized that this struggle will persist, regardless of how long it takes.
The INDIA bloc plans to hold a 'Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy' to the Supreme Court, with opposition leaders gathering at the Connaught Place-Barakhamba Road junction at 1:30 PM.
Stressing that the Constitution is their guiding principle, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha declared, "As long as the Constitution is not upheld and the election system is not reformed, the youth will not relent."
"Five individuals will face justice for attacking the essence of India. We will not waver, no matter how long it takes," he asserted.
"India is on the move; join us today at 1:30 PM at Barakhamba junction. Anyone who wishes to defend the Constitution is welcome, even those from the BJP who feel it is under threat," Gandhi urged reporters.
"This struggle is not about Rahul Gandhi or Narendra Modi; it is about preserving the Constitution and the future of India. I call upon all opposition leaders, party members, and the youth to join this fight for your future and dignity," he added.
He encouraged people to show solidarity when they file the petition at 3 PM, emphasizing the importance of standing with India's Constitution.
The opposition has been calling for the CEC's resignation following a report indicating that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised objections multiple times over the past ten months regarding electoral roll decisions.
In response to the criticism, the Election Commission stated that differing opinions are a normal aspect of institutional discussions and that all its decisions are legally valid.
Gandhi also raised concerns about the restrictions in place across Delhi, questioning, "Why is Delhi under lockdown? Why is the capital of India being treated like a prison? People are being prevented from entering the city by bus and train. Delhi has become a fortress."
He noted the heavy police presence, stating that they want 30,000 officers on the streets.
"We aim to demonstrate that the Narendra Modi government is shielding Gyanesh Kumar. The more they try to protect him, the better it is for us," he claimed.
He also mentioned that police are questioning the orders to stop and confront the youth.