INDIA blocs Save Democracy protest: In a powerful display of opposition unity, leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc gathered at Jantar Mantar, staging a protest under the rallying cry of Save Democracy.Prominent figures, including Sharad Pawar, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury, and others, voiced their dissent against the mass suspension of 146 opposition MPs during Parliaments Winter Session.Unified Opposition FrontSenior opposition leaders, sharing a common platform, expressed their commitment to safeguarding democracy. Sharad Pawar, NCP Supremo, affirmed that the opposition was prepared to pay any price to preserve the democratic values integral to the nation.Protest as a Message to the PeopleCongress MP Shashi Tharoor, actively participating in the protest, highlighted its significance in conveying a message to the public. Tharoor emphasised the unprecedented nature of the suspension, stressing the peril democracy faces. He advocated for a change in government, urging the people to bring the INDIA Alliance into power.Oppositions Stand on Parliament ProceedingsKarti Chidambaram, Congress MP, condemned the governments response to opposition demands within Parliament. He criticised the suspension of MPs and the swift passage of laws without adequate discussion, characterising it as a betrayal of faith in the parliamentary system. Chidambaram underscored the need to spotlight these issues for the benefit of the nation.Call for Unity to Save DemocracyCongress MP Manish Tewari underscored the imperative for nationalist organisations to unite in the quest to save democracy. The protest serves as a collective voice against what the opposition perceives as threats to democratic principles.Nationwide Protest and Suspended MPs PresenceIn addition to the Jantar Mantar protest, a nationwide demonstration is scheduled at all district headquarters by the Congress party. The suspended MPs, integral to the protest, symbolise the unity against the perceived high-handedness of the government.Backdrop of Suspensions and Lost ProductivityThe mass suspension of 146 MPs—100 from Lok Sabha and 46 from Rajya Sabha—stemmed from disruptions during demands for a statement from Union Minister Amit Shah regarding the Parliament security breach. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed dismay at the avoidable disruptions that led to the loss of nearly 22 hours in the Rajya Sabha.Upholding Democracy Amidst Political StrifeAs the protest unfolded, opposition leaders stood united against what they perceive as a challenge to democratic norms. The Save Democracy initiative seeks to resonate with the public, emphasising the need for collective action to protect the foundations of Indias democratic system.
