Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi detained as Congress marches towards Rashtrapati Bhavan
The Delhi Police detained former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, general secretary Priyanka Gandhi, and other party leaders on Friday as they marched towards the Rashtrapati Bhavan to protest unemployment and inflation. Earlier, in the midst of widespread protests, Rahul attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the central government. Section 144 restrictions are in effect in New Delhi owing to the Congress's demonstration.
Why does this story matter?
The opposition parties, led by the Congress, have repeatedly raised concerns over price rise, unemployment, and increase in the Goods and Service Tax (GST) during the monsoon session of the Parliament. The Congress have protested both within and outside the Parliament over these issues. Ever since the commencement of the session, the Opposition has attempted to corner the Centre and demanded discussion over inflation.
Every independent institution under BJP-RSS control: Rahul
Speaking at a news conference before the Congress protest, Rahul stated that the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) now dominate every independent institution in India. "My job is to resist the idea of the RSS, and I am going to do it. The more I do it, the more I will be attacked," he said.
Rahul attacks BJP, says 'India under dictatorship'
Rahul, while criticizing PM Modi's BJP-led administration at the Centre, said, "Today there is no democracy in India. We are not allowed to speak, we are not allowed to protest, and we get suspended from the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha." "Our country is under the dictatorship, and the democracy has died," he added.
We're not afraid: Rahul on ED sealing Herald House
"We are not afraid," he said on the Enforcement Directorate case. "Whatever they [BJP] do won't make any difference. I will continue to do the work to protect our country, its democracy, and brotherhood," he asserted.
No permission to protest, Delhi Police writes to Congress MP
Ahead of the protest, the police had informed the party that, except for Jantar Mantar, no protests would be permitted in Delhi as Section 144 is imposed. In a letter to party's Member of Parliament (MP) KC Venugopal, they stated that anyone who breaches it will face action. Congress MPs are scheduled to hold "Chalo Rashtrapati Bhavan," and will participate in "PM House gherao."
Strict security vigil, barricaded roads to foil protest
The party officials said they would proceed with their planned protest march even though they had not received approval from the police. Party workers have begun arriving at the Congress headquarters in Delhi at 24, Akbar Road. Additionally, the police have kept a close watch, and blocked off the street in front of the party headquarters, where hundreds of workers are apparently gathered.
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Priyanka Gandhi detained during protest
Protest coincides with ED raids and questioning of Gandhis
Due to anticipated congestion on important roads, the police have prepared specific measures, and will recommend diversions of traffic. Meanwhile, the protest coincides with the Enforcement Directorate searching the premises of Herald House and barricading roads leading to Sonia and Rahul Gandhi's homes. Both leaders have been facing money laundering charges, and are being questioned in connection with the National Herald case.
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