Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, declared on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar that he presently has 45 FIRs lodged against him and he is targeting 100. He slammed the current political climate as a "battlefield" where each accusation becomes a "medal" on his chest.
The FIRs stem from allegations that Rahul has misused public funds, a claim he denies and calls politically motivated. He said the number of cases is a "measure of resilience" and that the opposition will keep fighting to defend the Constitution.
In a separate blistering statement, Rahul demanded Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar resign, labeling him an "illegitimate" poll body chief. He cited reports of dissent among Kumar's subordinates and said the CEC's functioning has been compromised.
Rahul's comments come as the Congress party prepares to launch a nationwide protest against the Election Commission's conduct. He added that the movement will continue until the 100‑case target is reached, and that the resignation of the CEC will be pursued through parliamentary channels.
The next day, the CEC is expected to respond to the accusations, while the opposition will likely file a motion of no confidence in the upcoming parliamentary session.