Shivani Singh
New Delhi
Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has criticised the central government over the protests in Delhi demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the detention of protesters. He alleged that the government was trying to suppress dissent and put pressure on those participating in the protests. Rahul Gandhi said the Congress would continue its struggle to protect the Constitution, democratic values and citizens’ rights, and would not back down in the face of any pressure.
‘If You Want to Arrest Us, Arrest All of Us’
In a message shared on social media on October 10, Rahul Gandhi said the government could deploy a large police force and arrest leaders and young protesters, but such action would not weaken the movement. Naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, he alleged that attempts were being made to suppress dissent. He urged young people and Congress workers not to back down and to continue raising their voices in defence of the Constitution.
Protests Demand Chief Election Commissioner’s Resignation
Various organisations and political activists staged protests in Delhi demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Questions were also raised over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls during the demonstrations. Reports emerged that several protesters and political activists had been detained. Expressing gratitude to the people, Congress workers, young participants and civil society organisations involved in or supporting the protests, Rahul Gandhi said the struggle was not limited to any one party or organisation but was linked to the protection of the Constitution and democratic rights.
Political Dispute Continues Over Electoral Roll Revision
Political parties continue to trade allegations over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and police action against protesters. Rahul Gandhi has questioned the roles of the government and the Election Commission in these matters. The Election Commission, meanwhile, has defended the electoral roll revision process, stating that voters whose names have been wrongly deleted can apply to have them restored through the prescribed procedure. Rahul Gandhi reiterated that the Congress would continue its protest to defend the Constitution and protect citizens’ rights.
