Delhi Security Tightened as Opposition Marches Against CEC
Delhi Police and RAF deploy heavy security at Vijay Chowk as INDIA bloc MPs march to the Election Commission to demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's removal.
The national capital is on high alert this Tuesday as security forces have significantly beefed up arrangements around Vijay Chowk. The massive deployment comes in anticipation of a planned protest demonstration by opposition parties targeting the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Delhi Police have implemented multiple layers of barricades to maintain law and order and prevent any potential untoward incidents. Notably, a heavy presence of Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel has been observed around the Akashvani area, as members of the INDIA bloc prepare for their march toward the Election Commission's headquarters, Nirvachan Sadan.
The Core of the Protest: Demands for CEC Removal
The march is being driven by intense allegations regarding irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Opposition leaders are demanding the immediate sacking of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of compromising the integrity of electoral rolls.
This demonstration is a central component of the Opposition's broader "Save Democracy" campaign. The bloc has been consistently raising concerns regarding discrepancies in electoral rolls and is demanding much higher levels of transparency from the poll panel.
Logistics of the March
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh provided specific details regarding the morning's proceedings. According to Ramesh:
- Assembly Time: MPs from all opposition parties are expected to gather at Makar Dwar at 10:30 AM.
- March Start: The peaceful march from Parliament House to the Election Commission is scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM.
- District Level Action: The agitation will extend beyond the capital, with INDIA alliance parties organizing pad-yatras, demonstrations, and meetings at the district level until October 8.
While the march is an INDIA bloc initiative, Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh clarified that his party would not be participating in this specific march, stating, "The Aam Aadmi Party is not part of it. However, we are fighting this battle in our own way."
"Criminal Assault on Democracy": Opposition Escalates Attacks
The political rhetoric has reached a fever pitch. Taking to social media, Rahul Gandhi leveled serious accusations against the CEC, claiming that Gyanesh Kumar unilaterally and illegally changed "Form 6." Gandhi alleged that the CEC is abusing his position to benefit the BJP, describing the situation as a "criminal assault on our democracy."
Further intensifying the pressure, K.C. Venugopal announced a nationwide "Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao" campaign set to launch on October 10. He did not mince words when criticizing the poll body, labeling it the "Cheating Commission of India."
Venugopal emphasized that the agitation is far from over, stating that the leadership has directed a continuous and aggressive campaign. The Opposition's goal remains clear: the removal of Gyanesh Kumar and a complete correction of the electoral system.