The Indian Youth Congress has suspended more than 80 office-bearers after reviewing their reported absence from the INDIA bloc rally held at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on November 1.
The disciplinary action followed an internal assessment of participation at the opposition gathering, which focused on electoral transparency and demands concerning Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Initial reports published on November 4 indicated that members from Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana were among those affected.
Party Introduces Digital Method to Record Attendance
Before the rally, the Youth Congress leadership had reportedly directed office-bearers at national, state and district levels to attend the Delhi programme and the march organised before it.
The organisation used its official mobile application, With IYC, to monitor registrations and participation.
Barcode scanners were also reportedly installed at the Minto Road assembly point to record the attendance of members.
According to NDTV, around 15,000 people gathered at the location, while the application recorded only 2,831 registrations.
The difference prompted the organisation to examine its attendance records and identify members who had allegedly failed to comply with the instructions.
Madhya Pradesh Members Face Major Disciplinary Action
The initial suspension figures included approximately 60 office-bearers from Madhya Pradesh, at least 13 from Himachal Pradesh and around 10 from Haryana.
In Madhya Pradesh, the action reportedly covered several organisational positions, including district presidents, vice-presidents, general secretaries and secretaries.
The Youth Congress has also sought explanations from members facing disciplinary proceedings. Additional notices and suspensions are possible as the review continues.
Uday Bhanu Chib Explains Organisation’s Decision
Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib defended the disciplinary measures, stating that the organisation needed to maintain discipline and accountability.
He said office-bearers had been clearly instructed to participate in the rally and that those who did not follow the directions had been removed from their positions.
The leadership believes organisational responsibilities should be handled by members who actively participate in party programmes.
Rally Dispute Raises Questions About Internal Coordination
The November 1 INDIA bloc gathering brought together opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge.
The rally focused on concerns surrounding electoral rolls, the SIR exercise and the functioning of the Election Commission.
The latest action against Youth Congress office-bearers has shifted some attention towards internal coordination and organisational discipline within the party.
The possibility of additional disciplinary measures means the issue could continue to attract attention in the coming days