New Delhi, December 22, 2023: Leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc staged a powerful demonstration at Jantar Mantar under the banner 'Save Democracy.' Prominent opposition figures, including Sharad Pawar, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Sitaram Yechury, gathered to voice their strong opposition to the recent suspension of 146 MPs during Parliament's Winter Session, which concluded on Thursday.
The protest sought to highlight the unprecedented move of suspending such a large number of MPs and its potential impact on the democratic fabric of the country. Speaking at the protest, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor emphasized that the actions taken were detrimental to the future of India, urging citizens to consider a change in government during the upcoming elections.
The nationwide scale of dissent was further demonstrated by a planned protest at all district headquarters initiated by the Congress party. The suspended MPs, who were part of the disruptive scenes leading to their suspension, also joined the protest, adding momentum to the 'Save Democracy' movement.
The suspension of 146 MPs, comprising 100 from Lok Sabha and 46 from Rajya Sabha, stemmed from their demand for a statement from Union Minister Amit Shah regarding the security breach in Parliament. The opposition, deeply dissatisfied with the government's response, amplified their protests, resulting in the suspension.
The political climate in Delhi remains charged as leaders grapple with the aftermath of the Winter Session, balancing legislative priorities with the need to address public discontent. The 'Save Democracy' protest symbolizes the growing concerns about the health of democracy in India, with opposition leaders calling for unity against what they perceive as an authoritarian turn in parliamentary proceedings.
