Rahul Gandhi Calls for Resignation of Election Chief Amid Ongoing Protests
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has urged Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to step down and consider becoming a whistleblower. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, he claimed that Kumar is not the head orchestrator of electoral fraud but instead is caught in a larger scheme. Gandhi emphasized that the focus should be on the influential figures behind these actions, suggesting that the Opposition might show leniency towards Kumar if he cooperates.
During the press conference, Gandhi remarked, “Just resign and step aside. It’s not too late. We may even forgive you as this would be an act of service to our nation and its Constitution. We understand the pressure you’re under, but we are not cruel; we defend our Constitution.”
The Opposition plans to march to the Supreme Court to address what they call “vote-thievery” after the Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, declined an earlier request for a meeting, deeming it inappropriate. In their petition, they aim to garner the court’s support regarding the violent response from authorities against protests in Delhi.
Gandhi mentioned that many police officers feel conflicted about being ordered to suppress the demonstrators, particularly younger people. He reported that some of them privately agree with the Opposition’s stance. He voiced concern over reports of violence against female protesters by supporters of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological ally, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
He stated, “Many in the police believe we’re standing for the right cause. We see a division between the police and the officials supporting Modi’s government.” Gandhi asserted that the protests signify a unified effort, dismissing claims of separate movements.
After meeting with President Droupadi Murmu, a delegation of Opposition leaders accused Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Kumar of colluding to undermine democracy. They called for Kumar’s resignation and the repeal of a recent law that grants lifetime immunity to the chief election commissioner and others within the Election Commission of India.
Their memorandum to the President requested an end to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of the electoral roll and the immediate restoration of a significant number of voters who were reportedly removed unlawfully. The Opposition is also advocating for a return to paper ballots and contested the legitimacy of elections held in the past two years due to alleged vote theft.
Gandhi expressed disbelief that the President did not challenge their claims when discussing the alleged electoral manipulation. He noted that despite bringing up evidence of widespread electoral fraud, the President merely requested further proof.
The Congress leader mentioned multiple attempts by MPs to meet Kumar, which were thwarted, leading them to seek an audience with the President and now plan to approach the Supreme Court with their concerns. This ongoing saga underscores tensions surrounding electoral integrity and governance in the country.
