New Delhi, October 8:
The Delhi Police have registered at least four FIRs against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other Opposition leaders in connection with clashes and alleged obstruction of public servants during protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, police sources said on Thursday.
The cases relate to a two-day protest in the national capital, during which Congress and other Opposition leaders demanded the CEC’s resignation over allegations of “vote theft”. The protesters attempted to proceed towards Jantar Mantar for a sit-in, but police stopped them, citing restrictions on public gatherings.
According to police sources, the FIRs invoke provisions relating to assault, obstruction of public servants in the discharge of their duties and violation of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which deals with orders to prevent potential disturbances and maintain public order.
The latest development came a day after the police registered an FIR against Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over allegations that they forced their way into Akashvani Bhawan during the protest. The allegations are under investigation.
Police said 91 people, including several Members of Parliament, were detained during Wednesday’s demonstration. The action followed attempts by Opposition leaders and supporters to move towards Jantar Mantar despite police restrictions.
The protests were part of a wider campaign by Opposition parties questioning the conduct of the Election Commission and demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and the voting process.
The Congress has accused the Election Commission of failing to adequately address its concerns. The allegations of obstruction and assault in the FIRs, however, remain claims to be examined through the legal process.