Communist Party of India (CPI) General Secretary D. Raja on Friday criticised the government over alleged measures to restrict public protests ahead of the Opposition’s planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar on October 10. Describing the reported restrictions as unfair and condemnable, Raja accused the authorities of creating obstacles for people seeking to participate in the protest. The demonstration is part of the Opposition’s continuing agitation over alleged irregularities in the electoral process.

Speaking to IANS, Raja expressed concern over reports of disruptions to public transport and restrictions on movement in the national capital. Reports indicated that several trains had been cancelled at two railway stations in Delhi, while services at 56 metro stations were expected to be affected ahead of the demonstration. Raja alleged that the deployment of additional security personnel and restrictions on movement were intended to discourage people from joining the protest.

Despite the reported measures, the CPI leader expressed confidence that demonstrators would find ways to participate in the planned gathering. He maintained that such restrictions would not necessarily prevent people from raising their concerns through public demonstrations. His remarks came amid heightened political tensions between the Opposition and the government over allegations concerning the electoral process and the revision of electoral rolls.

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Raja also confirmed that he would attend the INDIA bloc meeting scheduled for 3 p.m. on Friday at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan. Opposition leaders are expected to discuss their next course of action, including the possibility of meeting President Droupadi Murmu to present their concerns. The discussions are also expected to cover the timing and size of a proposed delegation that would seek an appointment with the President.

The Opposition’s agitation centres on alleged electoral irregularities, which its leaders have described as “vote chori”, or vote theft. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has become a major point of contention between Opposition parties and the Election Commission of India. Opposition leaders have also demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over their concerns about the electoral process.

The October 10 demonstration at Jantar Mantar would mark another day of protests by Opposition leaders over the issue. The INDIA bloc has been seeking an opportunity to present its concerns directly to the President and is considering further steps to press its demands. The proposed meeting is expected to help Opposition parties coordinate their strategy as the dispute over electoral rolls and the conduct of elections continues.

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