In a massive show of unity, the INDIA bloc rallied at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan today, advocating for the release of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren. Leaders from major Opposition parties voiced concerns over the health of India’s democracy, accusing the BJP of undermining the Opposition through central investigative agencies. The BJP retaliated, dismissing the rally as a guise to protect corrupt practices and familial interests.
India Alliance Demands to Election Commission
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra of the Congress presented five demands to the Election Commission, emphasizing the need for a fair electoral playing field. She urged an immediate halt to efforts aimed at crippling the finances of Opposition parties and called for a cessation of actions by investigative bodies like the Enforcement Directorate, CBI, and Income Tax department. Additionally, the alliance demanded a Supreme Court-monitored Special Investigation Team to probe alleged fund extortion by the BJP through the electoral bonds scheme.
Leaders Assert Commitment to Democracy
During the “Loktantra Bachao Rally,” leaders reaffirmed their dedication to preserving democracy in India. Rahul Gandhi of the Congress warned against the perils of succumbing to dictatorship, urging citizens to choose democracy over autocracy. Other leaders echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of upholding constitutional values and the republic.
Opposition Unity in the Face of Adversity
The arrest of Arvind Kejriwal served as a rallying point for the Opposition, overshadowing recent internal disagreements. Leaders emphasized the need for solidarity in confronting challenges to democracy, transcending individual differences for the greater good.
Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress Affiliation
Despite Mamata Banerjee’s initial deviation from the alliance in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien affirmed the party’s commitment to the INDIA bloc, labeling the struggle as one against BJP’s authoritarian tendencies.
Akhilesh Yadav’s Critique of BJP
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized BJP’s governance, highlighting the imprisonment of elected Chief Ministers and garnering international criticism.