Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday asserted that the Congress party’s mega rally at Ramlila Maidan, Delhi, is aimed at protecting every citizen’s right to vote amid allegations of “vote chori” (vote theft). The rally has drawn thousands of Congress workers and leaders from across the country, particularly from Karnataka.

Shivakumar accused the BJP-led central government of attempting to restrict vehicles carrying Congress workers from entering Delhi for the protest. “As per the information I have received this morning, the BJP and the central government are stopping vehicles from entering the city. I don’t know why they are worried. But no one can stop our voice,” he said.

The Karnataka Deputy CM stated that around 3,500–4,000 party workers and leaders have traveled to Delhi, with about 1,500 accommodated by the party and the rest making their own arrangements by train and flight. He also highlighted that 1.42 crore signatures were collected from the state as part of the Congress’ ongoing signature campaign.

Also Read: Thane Senior Citizen Duped of Rs 6.44 Crore in Online Share Trading Scam

Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar emphasized that the rally is not about political gains but about safeguarding democracy and citizens’ rights. He invoked the sacrifices of Congress leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Mahatma Gandhi, underlining the party’s long-standing commitment to democratic principles.

Shivakumar confirmed that Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will also attend the rally, and both leaders will proceed together from Indira Gandhi Bhavan. Meanwhile, slogans praising Shivakumar as the “next CM” echoed from supporters as he left Karnataka Bhavan, signaling strong grassroots enthusiasm for the party leadership.

The rally is expected to be one of the largest political mobilizations in Delhi this year, highlighting Congress’ determination to raise concerns about electoral transparency while sending a message of democratic solidarity across the country.

Also Read: DK Shivakumar Set to Take Karnataka CM Post on January 6, Claims Congress MLA