Congress Declares October 8 as Black Day for Indian Democracy, Nationwide Protests Planned

New Delhi, October 7: The Congress party has announced that October 8 will be observed as ‘Black Day’ in protest against the current state of Indian democracy. The party plans to hold demonstrations across the country. A post on the party’s official X handle stated, “October 8 – Black Day for Indian Democracy. On this occasion, the Congress party will raise its voice nationwide.”

This announcement follows an incident in Delhi where police obstructed members of the India Block, including prominent leaders like Rahul Gandhi, as they attempted to march towards Jantar Mantar to demand accountability from the Election Commission. Several MPs were detained during this confrontation.

In a circular issued by Congress General Secretary (Organization) K.C. Venugopal on October 7, directives were given to all state, district, and block-level Congress committees to organize extensive protests on October 8.

The circular emphasized, “October 8 – Black Day for Indian Democracy. On this occasion, the Congress party will raise its voice nationwide.”

The All India Congress Committee’s circular, released on October 7, outlines the planned protests.

Details of the Circular

According to the circular, the Congress party alleges that while peacefully marching towards Jantar Mantar to demand accountability from the Election Commission, party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi were stopped and faced aggressive behavior from the police. The letter claims that Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, senior leaders, and India Block MPs were mistreated, faced baton charges, and sustained serious injuries.

The circular also stated that the party will continue to fight until Gyanesh Kumar is removed from his position and the credibility of the electoral system is restored. These allegations have been made by Congress, and the Delhi police have not issued any denial regarding the baton charge claims.

What Happened in Delhi on Wednesday

On Wednesday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge hosted a lunch for India Block MPs, after which they decided to march to Jantar Mantar. As they proceeded, police set up barricades to stop them. Priyanka Gandhi lay down on the road when stopped, alleging that police officers assaulted her.

Rahul Gandhi was taken into custody and transported to the Barakhamba Road police station, while Priyanka Gandhi and other MPs were taken to Chhatrasal Stadium. By late evening, all MPs were released.

The day before, on Tuesday, MPs led by Rahul Gandhi had sought an appointment with the Election Commission. The commission issued a press note that day, stating that no party had requested an appointment through an authorized representative by 4 PM.

Delhi Police’s Stance

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Delhi police clarified that prior permission from the competent authority is mandatory for any gathering, protest, or demonstration at Jantar Mantar. Applications must be submitted at least ten days before the proposed event to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, New Delhi District. The police noted that protests, demonstrations, and gatherings in the Central Vista area are prohibited, and violations may lead to legal action.

What to Expect in Rajasthan

The circular applies to all state, district, and block committees, indicating that protests are also planned at district headquarters and block levels in Rajasthan. In Bhilwara, Congress has already announced a ‘Save Vote, Save Country’ march from Ambedkar Circle to the Collectorate on October 8. Former national secretary Dheeraj Gurjar stated in a press conference that this event is part of the ‘Save Democracy Week’ running from October 2 to 8, demanding the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner.

Previously, on September 29, numerous district Congress committees in Rajasthan protested demanding Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation. Effigies were burned in Dholpur and Didwana, and state president Govind Singh Dotasra submitted a memorandum to the state election commissioner.

The Root of the Controversy

The Congress party and the India Block have been consistently targeting the Election Commission over allegations of voter list irregularities and ‘vote theft.’ They are demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who took office on February 19, 2025. The Supreme Court recently denied an immediate suspension of Gyanesh Kumar concerning these issues.

Author Profile

Kuldeep Singh Chundawat: My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.