Opposition MPs Take to Streets in Protest Against Suspensions, Alleging Democracy Erosion

In a resounding display of dissent, suspended opposition lawmakers from the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha orchestrated a protest march from the historic old Parliament building to Vijay Chowk in central Delhi. Carrying a prominent banner proclaiming “Save Democracy” and wielding placards questioning the fate of democracy, the MPs raised their voices against the recent spate of suspensions totaling over 140 members for alleged “unruly conduct.” The protest was spearheaded by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, a notable figure among the few opposition MPs yet to face suspension.

The demonstration unfolded amid a tense standoff between opposition parties and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), triggered by the expulsion of a significant number of MPs. The contentious issue escalated further as parliamentary authorities clashed with opposition demands for government accountability following a recent security breach. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were called upon to provide formal statements but cited unspecified national security concerns, declining the request. Despite their refusal, both leaders addressed the media.

Kharge, leading the protest, accused the BJP of undermining democracy and emphasized the opposition’s repeated appeals to the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman for an opportunity to address the security breach issue. He affirmed the opposition’s determination by announcing a planned follow-up protest at Jantar Mantar on Friday, joined by members of the INDIA bloc. The rally signifies a continued pushback against what the opposition perceives as a crackdown on their parliamentary rights and a threat to democratic principles, reflecting the escalating tensions between the ruling party and the dissenting voices within the Indian political landscape.

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