“They are afraid”: Kharge slams Centre on Delhi security curbs
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accuses the government of acting out of fear as Delhi faces metro and train closures ahead of INDIA bloc protests.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing attack on the Central government on Friday, accusing the ruling dispensation of acting out of fear. His remarks came in response to heavy security measures in Delhi, including the closure of metro stations and the cancellation of train services, ahead of a planned protest by the INDIA bloc.
The opposition leaders are scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu to discuss alleged irregularities in the electoral process and the functioning of the Election Commission. Addressing reporters, Kharge did not mince words regarding the government's reaction to the upcoming demonstrations.
“A person who is afraid will die”
Kharge suggested that the sudden tightening of security and disruption of public transport were signs of government insecurity. "They are afraid. A person who is afraid will die tomorrow, if not today," he stated bluntly.
The Congress leader highlighted that the opposition intends to apprise the President of serious concerns regarding the conduct of the Election Commission. He specifically pointed toward the actions of Gyanesh Kumar, claiming that certain mistakes have created a sense of fear across the country and placed democracy at risk. Kharge further alleged that other Election Commissioners had repeatedly flagged these issues in writing, yet no corrective measures were taken.
“Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns over ‘vote chori’ and irregularities in EVMs. We have been raising these issues for a long time, not just today. We are doing this for the betterment of the nation,” Kharge added.
Allegations of an ‘Undeclared Emergency’
As INDIA bloc MPs gathered in the Central Hall of Parliament ahead of their 8 PM meeting with the President, Congress MP KC Venugopal accused the authorities of enforcing an “undeclared emergency” in the national capital. He pointed to the shutdown of metro stations and the halting of train services as evidence of dictatorial behavior.
Venugopal emphasized that while agitations and processions are a fundamental part of a democratic nation, the government's current approach is disproportionate. He noted that the opposition would decide on its next course of action following the meeting with the President but vowed that the agitation would continue.
Supreme Court intervenes on transport restrictions
The legal battle over Delhi's movement reached the highest court in the land on Friday. The Supreme Court expressed strong objections to the restrictions imposed ahead of the October 10 protests, noting that they could severely disrupt the lives of ordinary citizens who have no involvement in the demonstrations.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, made several key observations:
- Proportionality: The Court stated that Metro and train services cannot be completely halted and urged authorities to reconsider restrictions in a manner that is proportionate to the security needs.
- Citizen Rights: The bench clarified that the current proceedings are focused on the movement of ordinary citizens and the availability of public transport.
- Right to Protest: The Court distinguished between the restrictions affecting public movement and the broader, protected right to protest.