Opposition leaders rally at Jantar Mantar to demand CEC resignation

Buses carrying Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and a coalition of Opposition MPs are converging on Jantar Mantar today, shifting their demonstration after Delhi Police blocked protests elsewhere in the capital. The movement signals an escalating confrontation over alleged irregularities in the electoral roll revision process overseen by CEC Gyanesh Kumar.

Editorial·October 7, 2026·reads: 339

Opposition leaders rally at Jantar Mantar to demand CEC resignation

Congress leader Pawan Khera confirmed the change in venue on social media, citing Article 19 of the Constitution to defend the right to peaceful assembly. Rahul Gandhi, who was detained during a similar protest on Tuesday, reiterated his demand for Kumar’s resignation, describing potential legal repercussions as a badge of honor. TMC MP Derek O'Brien emphasized the unity of the Opposition bloc, vowing to maintain the pressure until their demands are met.

The unrest stems from accusations of "vote theft" during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. While the primary focus remains on the national capital, the protest movement has expanded, with parallel demonstrations occurring across several states. In a separate incident on Wednesday, Aam Aadmi Party workers faced police barricades while marching toward the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer’s office, further highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction among non-BJP parties regarding the current administration of election oversight.