The opposition INDIA bloc launched a major demonstration of political unity in the national capital today, marching toward the Supreme Court under the banner of “Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy.” Led by senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the alliance is demanding the immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging widespread irregularities in the functioning of the Election Commission and accusing the poll body of “vote theft.” The Congress party reiterated that the agitation will continue unabated until the Chief Election Commissioner steps down from his post.
The protest marks a significant display of joint opposition strength, with large gatherings of party workers and leaders converging at the Congress headquarters and Jantar Mantar since early morning. Key regional heavyweights, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, are participating in the march alongside representatives from the Trinamool Congress, Left parties, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar), National Conference, VCK, IUML, and various regional outfits from Kerala.
Reacting sharply to the mobilization, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the opposition for causing disruption to daily life in Delhi. The BJP asserted that instead of taking to the streets and creating civic inconvenience, the alliance should formally present concrete evidence backing their allegations directly to the Election Commission.
In anticipation of potential disruptions, Delhi Police mobilized extensive security arrangements across central Delhi. The march is scheduled to commence at 1:30 PM from the Connaught Place–Barakhamba Road junction. To manage crowds and maintain law and order, entry and exit gates at six key Delhi Metro stations—Patel Chowk, Janpath, Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, and Barakhamba Road—have been closed until 4:00 PM. However, interchange facilities across all these stations remain fully operational for commuters.
