New Delhi: In a fierce and direct attack on the ruling government and the Election Commission of India, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, declared that those attempting to destroy Indian democracy must face stringent punishment, regardless of their position or seniority.
Addressing leaders of the INDIA bloc during a crucial meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday, the Congress leader emphasized that the opposition alliance functions as the “collective protector” of the Indian Constitution. The high-stakes meeting, which lasted three and a half hours, saw the participation of prominent leaders, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and focused heavily on allegations of vote theft and the role of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Speaking at a joint press conference following the meeting, Gandhi elaborated on the alliance’s unified stance. “There was a very productive discussion in the INDIA alliance meeting, and the core issue was vote theft. It is the unanimous opinion of all parties that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar have launched an assault on India’s democratic system,” Gandhi stated.
He further underscored his commitment to accountability. “We will not sit silently. It is the personal commitment of every INDIA bloc leader to ensure that those who destroy Indian democracy are punished. It does not matter how senior they are or who they are. Indian democracy is bigger than any single individual in this country,” he added.
During his address to the alliance, Gandhi highlighted five key strategic points. He pointed out that PM Modi is currently on his “weakest political pitch” in years, urging the opposition to maintain a united political offensive. In a surprising claim, Gandhi mentioned that officials from central agencies like the ED and CBI, alongside Election Commission insiders, are providing him with internal details regarding systemic irregularities. He urged regional leaders to pool such information to collectively corner the government. Addressing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee directly, he cited the recent burning of EVMs in Bengal as a prime example of systemic manipulation.
Detailing the alliance’s future course of action, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announced a series of nationwide protests. “The parties have decided to organize ‘Save Democracy’ marches and stage protests outside District Magistrate offices from October 2 to October 8, actively involving the youth and NGOs,” Kharge announced.
Additionally, all opposition Members of Parliament plan to march to the Election Commission on October 6. The INDIA bloc will also seek an appointment with the President of India to submit a formal memorandum against the alleged “vote theft government” by the second week of October.