Rahul Gandhi Calls for Supreme Court Action Against Chief Election Commissioner
Rahul Gandhi's Press Conference Highlights
LoP in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi addresses a press conference, at AICC headquarters, in New Delhi, on Monday. (Photo:PTI)
New Delhi, Oct 12: On Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi announced that leaders from the INDIA coalition plan to approach the Supreme Court with a petition against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of 'vote chori' and urging him to resign and become a whistleblower.
During a press briefing at the Congress headquarters, Indira Bhawan, Gandhi claimed that while Kumar had erred, he was not the mastermind behind the alleged conspiracy.
He called on the CEC to assist the opposition in revealing those orchestrating the actions. Gandhi stated, “Resign, turn approver; you have made a mistake but you are not the mind behind the mistake.”
The former president of Congress emphasized that the opposition's struggle would persist despite challenges, suggesting that the movement could extend over days or even years.
He also mentioned that approximately 200 government officials are in contact with the opposition, providing them with information.
The INDIA bloc had organized a 'Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy' to the Supreme Court on Monday, with opposition leaders expected to gather at the Connaught Place–Barakhamba Road junction at 1.30 pm.
Previously, the bloc intended to present a memorandum to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, requesting action regarding their allegations against Kumar.
However, the Chief Justice declined the opposition leaders' request prior to the planned march.
In preparation for the mobilization, security measures were intensified throughout the national capital, with over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel deployed, according to officials.
More than 120 companies from the Central Armed Police Forces were assisting the Delhi Police.
The New Delhi district was segmented into 20 zones, with joint commissioners, deputy commissioners, and additional deputy commissioners overseeing the situation.
Special commissioners monitoring various units were closely observing developments, while social media platforms were being scrutinized for any attempts to organize protests, officials reported.
Additionally, the Delhi Police removed Jantar Mantar as an approved protest site and designated three new locations for demonstrations: Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground in east Delhi.
According to an official directive, Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued the standing order on October 11, following increased security measures due to calls for protests at Jantar Mantar.