Opposition Rally in Ranchi: SunitaKejriwal Asserts INDIA Bloc’s Fight Against BJP ‘Dictatorship’
News Mania / Agnibeena Ghosh/ 24th April 2024
SunitaKejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, made a bold assertion during a mega rally organized by the INDIA bloc in Ranchi, stating that they will fight against the ‘dictatorship’ of the BJP and emerge victorious. The rally, named ‘UlgulanNyay’, was primarily organized by the Jharkhand MuktiMorcha (JMM) and saw the participation of prominent opposition leaders, including Shibu Soren, Farooq Abdullah, Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, and Bhagwant Mann.
Symbolic Empty Chairs:
As a symbolic gesture, two empty chairs were placed on stage—one for Arvind Kejriwal and the other for former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren—to signify their absence due to incarceration. The rally served as a demonstration of unity and strength for the opposition bloc, highlighting their resolve to challenge the ruling BJP government.
Prime Minister’s Critique:
In a separate event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party during an election rally in Rajasthan, highlighting its dwindling electoral performance. Modi attributed the decline of the Congress to issues of nepotism and corruption, asserting that the country is disillusioned with the party and holding it accountable for its actions.
Intensified Campaigning for Lok Sabha Polls:
With Phase I of the Lok Sabha polls witnessing a voter turnout of 63.89%, political parties have ramped up their campaigning efforts for the upcoming phases. The second phase, scheduled for April 26, will see polling in 89 constituencies across 12 states and one Union Territory. The ongoing seven-phase polls are set to conclude on June 1, with counting scheduled for June 4.
Violence Mars Manipur Polling:
Amidst heightened political activity, violence marred the polling process in Manipur, leading to the Election Commission of India declaring void the polling conducted at 11 booths across five Assembly segments in Inner Manipur. Reports of mob violence, gunfire, and destruction of electronic voting machines (EVMs) prompted the decision to conduct a re-poll at these booths on April 22. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Manipur announced the re-polling following the incidents of unrest.
Implications of Opposition Rally:
The massive turnout at the Ranchi rally underscores the growing discontent among opposition parties against the BJP-led government. By coming together under the banner of the INDIA bloc, these parties aim to present a united front and challenge the BJP’s dominance in national politics. SunitaKejriwal’s assertion reflects the determination of opposition leaders to address issues of governance, democracy, and social justice.
ECI’s Response to Manipur Violence:
The Election Commission’s decision to conduct a re-poll in Manipur highlights the challenges faced in ensuring free and fair elections amidst instances of violence and electoral malpractice. The ECI’s swift action demonstrates its commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and addressing grievances raised by political parties and voters.
Looking Ahead:
As the Lok Sabha polls progress, the political landscape in India remains dynamic and unpredictable. The opposition’s show of strength in Ranchi and the BJP’s campaign blitz across the country signal a fiercely contested electoral battle ahead. With each phase of polling bringing new developments and challenges, the outcome of the elections will have far-reaching implications for the future direction of Indian politics.
