New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has reportedly declined a request from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a meeting over allegations of electoral irregularities, stating that similar issues are already pending before the Supreme Court on its judicial side.
According to sources, the CJI conveyed that the demands raised by the Opposition could not be addressed through administrative proceedings. He advised Gandhi to approach the Court by filing a petition, which could be taken up for hearing on Tuesday.
The request for a meeting was made jointly by Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha. Both leaders had written to the CJI seeking an appointment between 4 pm and 5 pm on Monday to submit a memorandum concerning alleged “vote chori” and other electoral issues.
The memorandum sought the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, suspension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and restoration of paper ballots in elections.
CJI Says Electoral Issues Must Be Raised Through Judicial Proceedings
Responding to the request, CJI Surya Kant reportedly clarified that the Supreme Court could not intervene in executive functions through its administrative powers.
Sources said the CJI emphasised that the Supreme Court remains accessible around the clock to citizens seeking protection against violations of their fundamental rights. However, any judicial relief must be sought through appropriate legal proceedings.
He also referred to the pendency of similar matters before the Supreme Court as a reason for not entertaining the request for a meeting.
Opposition Announces March to Supreme Court
Meanwhile, the Opposition has announced a protest march to the Supreme Court on Monday to press its demands concerning electoral processes.
The Congress has named the mobilisation “Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy”. Opposition leaders are scheduled to assemble at the Connaught Place-Barakhamba Road junction at 1.30 pm before proceeding with the march.
Rahul Gandhi had earlier called for broad participation in the demonstration, urging citizens, opposition parties, youth organisations and civil society groups to join the movement.
In a post on X, Gandhi referred to a protest by young people in Delhi the previous day and alleged that peaceful demonstrators had been assaulted by police personnel and BJP supporters.
He said the proposed march would bring together people across political parties, communities, castes, genders and states in support of democracy and the Constitution.
INDIA Bloc Intensifies Opposition to Electoral Roll Revision
The planned march follows a series of demonstrations organised by opposition parties over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and allegations of electoral irregularities.
On Friday, leaders belonging to the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) marched from Parliament to Vijay Chowk. They subsequently submitted a memorandum to President Droupadi Murmu.
The alliance had also finalised a joint action plan last week to oppose the SIR exercise, including public rallies and marches under the theme of saving democracy.
The Opposition’s latest mobilisation comes as its demands concerning the electoral roll revision, the Election Commission’s leadership and the voting system remain central to its protest campaign.
