Delhi Erupts: Left Parties, Students March Against SIR, Demand CEC's Ouster
Left parties and student leaders march in Delhi demanding the removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar over Special Intensive Revision (SIR) irregularities.
The streets of the national capital witnessed a surge of political unrest on Friday as various Left parties and student leaders organized a massive march against the march against SIR (Special Intensive Revision) of electoral rolls. The protesters converged near the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, raising loud demands for the immediate removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar.
Protests Intensify Over Electoral Roll Revision
The demonstration is part of a growing wave of discontent involving the INDIA bloc and the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). These groups have leveled serious allegations of irregularities regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The protesters argue that the process has been compromised, leading to their demand for the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar.
Political Firestorm: Allegations of Manipulation
Adding fuel to the fire, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi launched a scathing attack on the ECI, claiming the institution has been stripped of its constitutional authority. Gogoi alleged that the Election Commission has been "hollowed out" and "manipulated," suggesting that the Chief Election Commissioner is operating out of loyalty to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah rather than upholding the Constitution.
In a bid to keep the momentum alive, Gogoi revealed that the INDIA bloc is planning to organize a mock Parliament on October 28, although the specific details of the event are still being finalized. This follows the ongoing 'Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao' rallies currently taking place across the country.
Traffic Chaos and Police Response
Given the scale of the march from Bangla Sahib Gurudwara toward Jantar Mantar, the Delhi Traffic Police had to step in to prevent total gridlock. A comprehensive traffic advisory was issued, implementing diversions between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
The Delhi Traffic Police used social media platform X to warn commuters to avoid affected roads and plan their journeys in advance. Motorists were urged to remain patient and cooperate with the personnel deployed on the ground to avoid heavy congestion.
Upcoming Political Mobilization
While the protests continue on the streets, the political battle is moving toward larger venues. It has been reported that the Delhi Police issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) on October 17 to the Congress party for a major rally scheduled for November 1 at Ramlila Maidan, signaling further escalations in the opposition's campaign against the ECI.