The INDIA bloc has announced a protest scheduled for November 5 at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, focusing on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The leaders of the opposition coalition have accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing constitutional institutions to erode democratic principles.

This demonstration is part of a broader nationwide agitation against the SIR exercise and calls for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. During a press conference held at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee office, state Congress chief BK Hariprasad stated that the Bengaluru rally will serve as a continuation of the earlier protest at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan, which took place on November 1.

Hariprasad mentioned that the INDIA bloc leaders have resolved to escalate their efforts across the nation, extending their protests to taluk and block levels. Hariprasad remarked, “In Karnataka, we have chosen to initiate a state-level protest in Bengaluru, followed by demonstrations at the district and taluk levels.” He emphasised that the agitation would persist until Chief Election Commissioner Kumar resigns from his position, underscoring the seriousness of their demands.

Allegations Against the BJP and RSS

The opposition coalition has alleged that the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) are attempting to undermine democracy through the misuse of constitutional bodies. Hariprasad reiterated that their protest would continue until their demands are met, stating, “The fight will continue until the CEC steps down.” Following the Bengaluru protest, the coalition plans to extend their efforts to district and taluk levels across Karnataka.

K Prakash, the state secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), highlighted the INDIA bloc’s demands, which include the cancellation of the SIR exercise, the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar, and reforms in the appointment process for the Chief Election Commissioner. He stated, “Our demands include scrapping the SIR exercise, ensuring the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar, and making the appointment process of the CEC democratic.”

Prakash also called for the repeal of legislation that grants permanent immunity to the Chief Election Commissioner. Prakash emphasised that these demands are crucial for the integrity of democratic processes in India. He added, “These are our key demands, and we are taking to the streets on November 5 to press for them.” He confirmed that all constituents of the INDIA bloc will participate in the protest, which is set to expand to district and taluk levels in subsequent phases.

Goals of the Movement

The leaders of the INDIA bloc have expressed a commitment to safeguarding democracy in the country. Prakash stated, “Safeguarding democracy is our responsibility. The INDIA bloc has decided to take this movement forward on a wider scale.” He further alleged that the BJP is attempting to transform India into an authoritarian state and impose a communal Hindutva agenda.

In his remarks, Prakash conveyed a strong message against such attempts, asserting, “We want to send a clear message that there is no place in this country for attempts to transform India into an authoritarian state or build a communal Hindutva nation.” Other leaders present at the press conference included CPI leader Saathi Sundaresh, Forward Bloc leaders Mahantesh Shivashankar and Ali, and CPI(ML) leader Clifton D’Rozario.

The November 5 protest is set to mark the beginning of the INDIA bloc’s state-level agitation in Karnataka, with plans for further demonstrations at district and taluk levels in the following phases. The coalition aims to mobilise widespread support for their demands and raise awareness about what they perceive as threats to democratic governance in India.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share