New Delhi: Opposition leaders from the INDIA bloc staged a robust display of solidarity in the capital on Sunday, organizing a 'Loktantra Bachao' rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan in protest against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Joined by prominent figures including Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, and NCP (SCP) chief Sharad Pawar, the rally aimed to denounce what they perceive as an assault on democracy.
Arvind Kejriwal's detention by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21, linked to allegations of money laundering related to an excise policy, sparked outrage among opposition ranks. At the forefront of the demonstration were Sunita Kejriwal, the Chief Minister's wife, and Kalpana Soren, wife of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who both stood in solidarity with the cause.
Addressing the gathered crowd, Sunita Kejriwal relayed a message from her incarcerated husband, asking the public whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi's actions in detaining him were justified. Asserting Kejriwal's integrity and patriotism, she rallied support for his cause, describing him as a stalwart figure.
However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the rally, dismissing it as a veiled attempt to shield corruption within opposition ranks. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi highlighted corruption charges against various opposition leaders predating 2014, suggesting political motivations behind the ongoing graft probes.
Reacting to the opposition's demonstration, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad labeled it hypocritical, citing the participation of individuals with prior corruption allegations as contradictory to their claims of ethical governance.
Despite the political fervor, the Delhi Police ensured the event proceeded smoothly, implementing stringent security measures and traffic regulations to maintain order. Section 144 remained in force in designated areas, and the rally was subject to conditions prohibiting marches and weapon possession.
Anticipation for the rally was high, with AAP leader Balbir Singh predicting record-breaking attendance and underscoring its significance in challenging perceived authoritarian tendencies.
Ahead of the rally, a show of solidarity between Sunita Kejriwal and Kalpana Soren underscored the shared commitment among opposition figures to resist perceived injustices.
As the rally unfolded, banners bearing the names of INDIA bloc leaders adorned the Ramlila Maidan, symbolizing a united front against what they perceive as threats to democratic norms.
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