Leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Rahul Gandhi, have filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the Election Commission of India (ECI) over alleged voter deletions and irregularities in the electoral roll revisions. The petition was submitted on Monday, following a demonstration termed ‘March for Democracy’, which was aimed at highlighting these alleged electoral issues.

The legal action was taken after the bloc’s MPs and supporters marched towards the Supreme Court to express their grievances. The petition is a public interest litigation (PIL) that includes prominent figures such as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, among others. In total, eleven Opposition leaders are named as petitioners.

The ECI is listed as one of the four respondents in the case, although specific details regarding the directions sought in the petition have not yet been disclosed. Prior to filing the petition, the INDIA bloc leaders had sought an audience with Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, which was denied. The Chief Justice remarked that discussing matters pending before the Supreme Court in such a meeting would breach the principle of separation of powers.

Concerns Over Electoral Process

Abhishek Manu Singhvi, a senior advocate representing the Congress, stated that the petition addresses multiple facets of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise and the limitations placed on peaceful protests. Singhvi clarified that the leaders from various Opposition parties had united to challenge the ECI’s actions through this legal avenue.

When questioned about the earlier attempt to meet the Chief Justice, Singhvi refuted claims that the Opposition was attempting to apply pressure on the judiciary. He explained that the leaders had initially sought an appointment but were advised to pursue legal action instead. Singhvi defended the march as a genuine expression of public discontent, dismissing allegations that participants were financially incentivised to attend.

No timeline has been provided for when the hearing or resolution of the petition may occur. The march, which was led by Gandhi and Kharge, saw participation from several Opposition MPs and activists. They began their procession at the Constitution Club, travelling towards the Supreme Court, but were halted by police barricades on Bhagwan Dass Road.

Govt Restrictions on Protests

The protest by the Opposition occurred amidst new restrictions imposed by the Delhi Police on demonstrations in the national capital. An order issued on October 11 designated specific areas for protests, including Ramlila Maidan and Burari Ground, following the removal of Jantar Mantar as a designated protest venue. The Congress party has condemned these restrictions, accusing the government of stifling peaceful demonstrations.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has publicly criticised the government’s actions, asserting that the authorities have responded harshly to public protests. He remarked that the current state of democracy has devolved into a situation described as “Demokursi”, suggesting a deterioration of democratic principles. Earlier, Gandhi had expressed his intent to approach the Supreme Court after the Chief Justice declined a meeting with the Leaders of Opposition.

During a press conference at the Congress headquarters, he called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, urging him to “turn approver” regarding the alleged electoral misconduct. Gandhi claimed that the Opposition’s campaign would persist until their concerns are addressed, asserting that numerous government officials are providing information to the Opposition.

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