New Delhi, October 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Congress leaders on Tuesday defended the INDIA bloc’s proposed November 1 rally in Delhi, rejecting Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal’s allegation that the event could disrupt Diwali celebrations and cause losses to traders.
Congress MP Jebi Mather said the rally was intended to press for transparency in the electoral system and protect democratic institutions. She accused the BJP of diverting attention from Opposition concerns over alleged irregularities in the electoral process.
“This is a very important step in ensuring transparency in the election system and ensuring that our democracy is protected,” Mather told IANS.
She said the Opposition wanted Diwali to symbolise hope and democratic progress, arguing that those concerned about protecting democracy would support the campaign.
Congress leader Udit Raj questioned why traders’ organisations had not raised comparable objections over earlier events and policy decisions that, according to him, had affected businesses, including the farmers’ protest and demonetisation.
Raj also criticised the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), alleging that traders had faced pressure from officials and instances of extortion. He further claimed that some traders’ organisations were acting under BJP pressure, but did not provide evidence for the allegation in the remarks cited.
Meghwal had objected to the rally’s proposed date, citing the 1984 anti-Sikh violence in Delhi and written representations submitted by traders. He questioned whether the gathering would affect commercial activity in surrounding areas during the festive season.
“Sikhs were subjected to horrific atrocities in Delhi on that day. Traders have also submitted written representations, yet Rahul Gandhi remains adamant that the event must be held on November 1 itself,” Meghwal said.
The INDIA bloc has announced a ‘Delhi Chalo March’ on November 1, with Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition leaders expected to participate in a march towards Ramlila Maidan.
The proposed rally forms part of the Opposition’s campaign against alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and its broader demand for electoral transparency.
The exchange reflects an intensifying political dispute over the rally’s timing, its potential impact on traders and the Opposition’s allegations concerning the electoral process.
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