INDIA Bloc Announces Nationwide Protest Plan Over Election Commission Row

New Delhi | October 1, 2026

Leaders of the Opposition's INDIA bloc have unveiled a joint action plan over issues related to the Election Commission and the ongoing debate surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

During a meeting attended by representatives of 19 opposition parties, the alliance decided to organise nationwide "Save Democracy" marches from October 2 to October 8, followed by demonstrations at district headquarters across the country. The bloc also announced that Opposition Members of Parliament would march to the Election Commission headquarters in New Delhi on October 6.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said the campaign would involve political workers, young people and civil society organisations. He also announced that the alliance plans to hold a major public rally in Delhi on November 1, along with additional rallies at different locations across the country.

The meeting also resulted in a decision to jointly approach the Supreme Court against provisions of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. Opposition leaders have raised objections to Section 16 of the Act, which grants legal protection to the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners for actions taken while performing official duties.

The INDIA bloc also reiterated its demand for conducting elections through ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Opposition leaders argued that stronger electoral safeguards are required, while raising concerns over the electoral process.

During the joint press conference, several leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee and Mallikarjun Kharge, criticised the functioning of the Election Commission and alleged irregularities in the electoral process. The Election Commission has previously maintained that it follows established legal procedures and has issued measures addressing concerns raised regarding the electoral roll revision process.

The INDIA bloc said it will continue its campaign through legal action, public outreach and political mobilisation in the coming weeks.