On Monday, thousands converged on Connaught Place–Barakhamba Road, forming a human chain that stretched from Mandi House to the Supreme Court. Police cordoned off the route, deploying riot gear and tear gas canisters. The crowd included students, trade‑union members, and families of farmers, all chanting “Gyanesh resign.”
The protest is part of a broader campaign that began last month, when the ECI was accused of manipulating voter rolls ahead of the upcoming elections. The INDIA alliance has called for a “clean” electoral process, citing irregularities in the 2024 general election data. Over 5,000 opponents have marched daily, demanding accountability.
Rahul Gandhi, the party's chief, said, “We cannot allow an election that is tainted by corruption.” Priyanka Gandhi, his wife, echoed the sentiment, adding that “the integrity of our democracy is at stake.” The call to resign has been met with stern dismissals from the ECI.
Earlier this week, the Gandhi‑led legal team met with Chief Justice N. V. Ramana, submitting a comprehensive petition that lists 12 alleged violations of the Representation of People Act. The petition, filed under the Supreme Court’s “direct writ” procedure, seeks to trigger a full inquiry into the ECI’s operations.
The court has not yet set a hearing date, but officials say the case will be part of the upcoming docket. The next step will be the Supreme Court’s review, which could prompt an investigation and potentially force a resignation. The opposition’s strategy hinges on the court’s response.