INDIA Bloc Protests Spark Shutdowns in Odisha and New Delhi
The INDIA bloc organized a state-wide bandh in Odisha and mass protests in New Delhi to denounce alleged vote theft and demand the Chief Election Commissioner's resignation.
The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc launched coordinated protests across India to denounce alleged electoral fraud and protect constitutional rights. In New Delhi, the coalition began a multi-day demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, following reports that other commissioners faced curtailed access to official software. Protests escalated on Wednesday as approximately 200 lawmakers attempted to march to Jantar Mantar, causing a three-hour traffic standstill. Delhi Police detained leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, while the Union Home Ministry deployed 110 paramilitary companies to maintain order.
Simultaneously, the Odisha Congress and the INDIA bloc called for a state-wide bandh in Odisha on October 9, 2026. The shutdown, preceded by a torch rally, disrupted normal life in Sambalpur, where schools and markets closed and protesters stopped the Sambalpur-Puri train. In response, the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate deployed 150 officers to secure national highways and essential services.
Opposition leaders characterized the movement as a struggle against the murder of the republic through vote theft. Law enforcement agencies in both regions reported clashes, with police alleging attacks on staff and Congress leaders claiming protesters were thrashed during detentions.
