INDIA Bloc to Continue Campaign Seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s Removal: Venugopal

Venugopal accused the Narendra Modi-led government of attempting to obstruct the Opposition’s planned public programme over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Speaking to reporters in the national capital, he alleged that the government was trying to protect Kumar from the Opposition’s campaign.

“Modi and Amit Shah are so scared. We announced a public impeachment,” Venugopal said.

He maintained that the Opposition would not abandon its plans and would announce an alternative venue and schedule shortly.

Opposition Claims Permission Withdrawn for Two Venues

Venugopal said the Opposition had initially approached the Ashoka Hotel lawn to organise the programme. According to him, the venue had agreed to host the event, but the police subsequently intervened and permission was denied.

The INDIA Bloc then booked Ramlila Maidan for nine days, he said, adding that permission was initially granted before being withdrawn.

Questioning the decisions, Venugopal alleged that the restrictions went beyond routine police administration and accused Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of seeking to shield the Chief Election Commissioner.

“This means it is not a Delhi Police decision. Instead, Modi and Shah want to protect their pet Gyanesh,” he alleged.

Venugopal said the Opposition would not be deterred by the withdrawal of permission and would continue its campaign until it achieved its stated objective.

“We will conduct it. We will let you know the programme,” he said, adding that the event could be organised at another location if necessary.

INDIA Bloc Plans November 1 Programme

According to Venugopal, around 21 political parties are expected to participate in the proposed programme scheduled for November 1.

He also announced plans for a curtain-raiser event on October 30, during which the Opposition intends to stage a mock removal of Kumar.

The campaign centres on the Opposition’s allegations regarding the electoral roll revision exercise and its demand for action against the Chief Election Commissioner.

Venugopal urged the public to await the alliance’s next announcement, reiterating that the withdrawal of permission for the proposed venues would not bring the campaign to an end.

The INDIA Bloc’s next steps are expected to become clearer once the alliance finalises an alternative venue and confirms its programme.