The political atmosphere in Haryana turned volatile as Congress leaders and workers staged a vigorous protest outside the state assembly complex in Chandigarh. The demonstration targeted what the opposition party calls blatant vote theft during the recent Rajya Sabha elections and Kartarpur assembly bypoll.
Massive Demonstration Against Electoral Malpractice
Senior Congress figures including former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, state party chief Udai Bhan, and Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda led hundreds of party workers in the protest. The agitators gathered at the Matka Chowk entrance, voicing their anger through loud slogans and carrying placards that condemned the electoral manipulation.
The protest remained peaceful but highly charged as Congress leaders accused the ruling government of undermining democratic processes. Security personnel maintained tight vigil around the assembly premises to prevent any untoward incidents during the session.
Specific Allegations and Demands
Congress leaders presented detailed complaints about two specific electoral contests. They alleged that during the Rajya Sabha elections held on February 20, one Congress vote was illegally declared invalid. This controversial decision ultimately affected the outcome, with media baron Kartikeya Sharma emerging victorious.
The opposition party also raised serious concerns about the Kartarpur assembly bypoll, questioning the integrity of the voting process. Congress representatives demanded immediate intervention from the Election Commission of India to ensure transparent vote counting and proper investigation into their complaints.
Udai Bhan, the Haryana Congress president, stated emphatically that democratic traditions were being murdered in the state. He warned that such practices could destroy public faith in electoral democracy if left unchecked.
Political Implications and Future Actions
The protest signals escalating political tensions in Haryana as opposition parties challenge the ruling coalition's methods. Congress leaders have vowed to continue their fight against what they describe as systematic erosion of democratic values.
The party has announced plans to take their grievances to higher constitutional authorities if their immediate demands aren't addressed. This includes potential legal challenges and nationwide awareness campaigns about the alleged electoral irregularities in Haryana.
Political observers note that such confrontations could influence upcoming electoral battles in the state, with opposition parties likely to make electoral integrity a central campaign issue. The Congress protest represents growing frustration among opposition parties about election management and counting procedures.
