Opposition parties have intensified their protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, with INDIA bloc MPs gathering at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and demanding his resignation.
The protest came a day after opposition leaders attempted to march towards the Election Commission office but were stopped by police. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the demonstrations would continue until the opposition’s concerns were addressed.
The row began after reports suggested that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised objections to some decisions that were allegedly taken without their knowledge. Opposition parties cited these reports to question the functioning of the poll body and demand greater accountability.
The Election Commission, however, has defended its internal process. It said differences of opinion are normal in a multi-member constitutional body and maintained that final decisions were taken unanimously.
Opposition MPs intensify Jantar Mantar protest
Several opposition MPs and Congress leaders joined the Jantar Mantar demonstration as the INDIA bloc increased pressure on the Election Commission.
The protest followed an earlier attempt by Rahul Gandhi and other leaders to reach the Election Commission office. After the march was stopped, Gandhi joined a sit-in and accused authorities of blocking the opposition from raising concerns over the functioning and independence of the poll body.
Rahul Gandhi has said the opposition will continue its campaign despite police action and cases linked to the protests.
The issue has now developed into a broader political confrontation, with opposition parties calling for transparency in the Election Commission’s decision-making process.
Delhi Police action adds to political row
Delhi Police stepped up security around Jantar Mantar and said prior permission is required for protests and sit-ins at the designated site.
Police also registered cases against Rahul Gandhi and Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra following the previous protest, including allegations of unauthorised entry into Akashvani Bhavan.
Congress leaders have argued that their protests are part of their democratic right to question public institutions, while police authorities have maintained that demonstrations must follow established rules.
The INDIA bloc continues to demand Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation, while the Election Commission has rejected allegations of improper decision-making. With both sides standing by their positions, the issue is expected to remain a major political controversy in the coming days.
