New Delhi – Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has called for a significant political mobilization on November 1, with a “Vote Bachao – Desh Bachao” (Save Vote – Save Country) march and mega rally scheduled at Ramlila Maidan in the national capital.
Gandhi’s announcement on Sunday comes amid his persistent campaign against the Election Commission and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. He alleges that numerous voters' names have been unfairly deleted from electoral rolls, describing this as a direct assault on democratic rights and a form of “vote theft.”
Allegations of Electoral Irregularities
In a post on X, Gandhi appealed to a broad spectrum of society to join the protest, including students, farmers, workers, women, youth, and traders. He emphasized, “Our vote is being stolen and we will not remain silent under any circumstances.” He further alleged that rules and laws were violated in the process of deleting names and that individuals raising concerns faced police action. “Now the country will answer,” Gandhi declared.
The Congress leader has previously stated that “vote chori” is a crime against the Indian people and a direct attack on the Constitution. The upcoming November 1 event, which will include a people’s march and a “maharally,” is intended for everyone who cares about democracy, according to Gandhi, who added: “The vote is yours. The fight is also yours.”
Broader Political Context
This mobilization aligns with the Congress party’s recent demands for an independent, Supreme Court-monitored investigation into alleged police excesses against student protesters, asserting citizens' right to question the government without intimidation. Gandhi also sarcastically thanked the BJP and its allies for actively publicizing the event, urging them to maintain their “energy and dedication” in promoting it.
The BJP has yet to issue a detailed response to Gandhi’s latest call for the Delhi march. The Congress is expected to leverage the November 1 gathering to unite various opposition-aligned social groups around its central demand for electoral integrity and transparency.