INDIA Bloc to Hold 'Public Impeachment' of CEC Gyanesh Kumar
The INDIA bloc will hold a public impeachment-style programme against CEC Gyanesh Kumar on October 30 at Mallikarjun Kharge's residence.
In a bold escalation of their campaign against the Election Commission, the INDIA bloc has announced a public impeachment of CEC Gyanesh Kumar. The opposition alliance has scheduled this symbolic proceeding for October 30, 2026, as part of a larger series of protests against alleged electoral irregularities.
Venue Shift to Kharge’s Residence
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh revealed via X (formerly Twitter) that the event will now take place at 10, Rajaji Marg, New Delhi—the official residence of Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge. The programme is set to begin at 3:30 pm on Friday.
Ramesh noted that the shift to Kharge's residence came after the alliance was denied other locations for the event. This follows a formal call by Mallikarjun Kharge to all INDIA bloc leaders to assemble and participate in the symbolic impeachment process.
Serious Allegations Against the CEC
The opposition's grievances against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar are severe. Jairam Ramesh accused the CEC of undermining the very foundations of India's electoral democracy and violating both the letter and spirit of the Constitution.
In a scathing attack, Ramesh claimed that the CEC has "lied to the Supreme Court" and described him as a "willing executioner" acting on behalf of a "Diabolical Duo," suggesting that those directing the CEC would eventually face their own reckoning.
The Root of the Conflict
The tension between the INDIA bloc and the Election Commission has been simmering for months. The opposition has been protesting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, raising alarms over suspected voter deletions and irregularities in the electoral process. These concerns have led to repeated demands for the resignation or removal of Gyanesh Kumar.
The agitation has already seen significant friction with law enforcement, with over 100 demonstrators being detained by police amid tight security in Central Delhi.
Roadmap for Further Protests
The public impeachment is only the beginning of a planned sequence of events. Following the proceedings on October 30, the Congress and its allies intend to launch a 'Dilli Chalo' march.
This will culminate in a massive public gathering at Ramlila Maidan on November 1. The Delhi Police has issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the rally, provided the organizers obtain permission from the land-owning authority. The rally is scheduled to run from 10 am to 5 pm, with strict conditions prohibiting overnight stays at the venue.
The INDIA bloc has made it clear that their protests will persist until full accountability is established within the Election Commission of India.