INDIA bloc plans SC challenge to 2023 Act, readies 'Save democracy' marches over CEC row
The INDIA bloc opposition alliance announced a comprehensive action plan on Wednesday to challenge what it characterizes as electoral irregularities and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, amid controversy over the Election Commission's functioning. The decision emerged from a three-and-a-half-hour meeting in Delhi attended by leaders of 19 opposition parties and Independent MP Kapil Sibal, including Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, alongside TMC chief Mamata Banerjee and leaders from multiple regional parties.
The alliance will execute a multi-pronged strategy combining street action and legal recourse. Nationwide 'Save Democracy' marches are scheduled for October 2-8, followed by demonstrations at district magistrates' offices across the country. On October 6, Opposition MPs from both Houses of Parliament will march to the Election Commission's office in New Delhi. Congress chief Kharge announced that Leaders of Opposition from both Houses will seek an appointment with the President in the second week of October to submit a representation. Additionally, five large rallies will be organized with dates and venues to be finalized later.
Simultaneously, the INDIA bloc will approach the Supreme Court to challenge the 2023 law which grants immunity to the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners for decisions taken during their tenure. Kharge emphasized the parties' commitment to involve young people and civil society organizations in their campaign against what they describe as a "vote chori government."
