INDIA Bloc Holds Mega Rally Demanding Election Chief's Resignation

The INDIA bloc organized a massive 'Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao' and 'Chalo Dilli' rally at New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on November 1, 2026. Led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, the opposition demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls resulted in the deletion of between 130 million and 160 million voters. The event followed a symbolic public impeachment of Kumar held on October 31.

While the opposition expected 10 lakh participants, Delhi Police estimated the turnout at 50,000 and deployed up to 10,000 personnel to maintain order. The rally faced criticism from the Chamber of Trade and Industry, which warned of massive economic losses during the Diwali season. Rahul Gandhi countered these concerns by urging protesters to shop locally to support traders, while alleging that the BJP forcibly closed shops in Connaught Place to harm businesses.

The Bharatiya Janata Party condemned the protest as a conspiracy to incite anarchy. BJP leaders specifically criticized the timing of the rally, noting it coincided with the anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. In response, the BJP organized counter-marches in West Delhi, Mumbai, and Rohtak. The Election Commission of India denied allegations of political motivation, stating the revisions merely removed duplicate and ineligible entries.