Vote theft allegations: Congress to hold mega rally on November 1; Delhi Police grant conditional permission

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Police has granted conditional permission for the INDIA bloc, led by the Congress, to hold a mega rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi on November 1, protesting alleged irregularities in the electoral rolls. The police have issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) allowing the party to use the ground until November 3, subject to strict conditions. The conditions include crowd management, CCTV surveillance, vehicle parking arrangements and the time by which the rally must conclude.

The rally is being organised over allegations of 'vote chori' (vote theft). The Opposition will demand answers over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and seek the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Congress aims to bring around 10 lakh party workers and supporters from different parts of the country to the rally. Permission from the authorities responsible for Ramlila Maidan is also required. The rally is scheduled to be held from 10 am to 5 pm on November 1.

The police have directed the organisers to arrange adequate drinking water through water tankers and provide sufficient toilet facilities, including separate arrangements for women. Volunteers must also be deployed to manage the crowd. They should wear uniforms or identity badges so that they can be easily identified.

The rally must end by 5 pm on November 1, after which arrangements will be made to clear the ground. The police have made it clear that the programme cannot continue beyond the permitted time. Participants will not be allowed to stay overnight at Ramlila Maidan either before or after the rally. Buses, cars, tempos and other vehicles must be parked only at locations designated by the traffic police. The organisers must ensure that the rally is conducted peacefully and that participants do not engage in violent or disruptive activities. The police have also prohibited any procession or march to destinations other than Ramlila Maidan.

Meanwhile, Congress general secretary K.C. Venugopal held a meeting with senior party leaders at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters at Indira Bhavan in Delhi on Saturday to review preparations for the rally. He is also learnt to have held discussions with Delhi Congress office-bearers.