The opposition’s Ramlila Maidan event followed a symbolic programme against the Chief Election Commissioner and took place amid BJP counter-demonstrations.
Procession Heads Towards Ramlila Maidan
The INDIA bloc brought opposition leaders and supporters to central Delhi on November 1 for a march and rally under the slogan ‘Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao’. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined the mobilisation, which focused on objections to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Before the meeting, several leaders gathered at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence and travelled towards the Minto Road area in an open vehicle. Supporters accompanied the procession, carrying party flags and raising slogans.
Opposition Cites 13.2 Crore Names
Opposition representatives referred to 13.2 crore names removed from voter lists and argued that the revision could affect eligible citizens. They called for stronger safeguards and greater transparency in the process.
The figure was cited by opposition leaders. The Election Commission has rejected allegations of political bias and says the revision is intended to identify duplicate and ineligible entries.
Demand for the Chief Election Commissioner’s Resignation
The alliance renewed its demand for Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation, saying its questions about the voter-list exercise had not been adequately addressed. Opposition leaders called for greater accountability in the way electoral rolls are prepared and updated.
Symbolic Proceedings Preceded the Rally
The November 1 event followed symbolic public proceedings held by INDIA bloc representatives on October 31. During that programme, opposition members presented allegations against the Chief Election Commissioner and adopted a symbolic motion by a show of hands. It was a political demonstration, not a formal constitutional removal procedure.
BJP Objects to the Rally Date
The BJP criticised Congress for holding the event on November 1, a date associated with the 1984 anti-Sikh violence. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other BJP representatives questioned the timing, while party members organised counter-marches in parts of Delhi and Haryana.
Security Measures and Business Concerns
Police deployments, barricades, surveillance arrangements and traffic restrictions were put in place around the political events. Traders also expressed concern about possible disruption during the festive shopping period.
The day’s programmes brought two separate arguments into focus: the opposition’s demand for electoral safeguards and the BJP’s objections to the rally’s timing.