Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi Detained During 'Save Democracy March', Demand EC Resignation

'Save Democracy March' Underway in Delhi

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were taken into custody by the Delhi Police during the 'Save Democracy March' in New Delhi on October 6, 2026. The incident occurred amidst a protest by opposition parties demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner.

Opposition Protests Over Election Commission Demands

The demonstration was organized by 19 opposition parties to protest electoral issues and demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Protesters were halted near Akashvani Bhavan, leading to police intervention.

Police Block March, Leaders Detained

Opposition leaders were prevented from proceeding further due to barricades erected by the police near All India Radio (Akashvani Bhavan). During the ensuing situation, Rahul Gandhi attempted to climb the barricades, which heightened tensions.

Opposition Calls for Fair Elections

The 'Save Democracy March' was initiated by opposition parties to ensure fairness and transparency in upcoming elections, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They expressed concerns about the Election Commission's independence and the need to uphold institutional integrity.

Diverse Opposition Participation

The march saw participation from Members of Parliament representing various prominent opposition parties, including Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Rashtriya Janata Dal, and others. The march was headed towards Raj Ghat from Parliament but was stopped by police near Akashvani Bhavan.

Police Action and Temporary Custody

In an effort to disperse the protesters, the police placed Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with several other opposition leaders, in temporary custody. They were initially seated in a bus and later taken inside the Akashvani premises. The authorities clarified that this was not a formal arrest but a temporary measure to control the protest and maintain law and order. Police stated the demonstration lacked permission and persuasion attempts were made before custody was deemed necessary.

Opposition Condemns Detention as Repression

Opposition parties strongly reacted to the detention of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, accusing the government of suppressing dissenting voices and calling it a dark day for democracy. The Congress party vowed to continue their fight against the government's undemocratic stance. Opposition leaders labeled the action as repressive, occurring amid growing questions about the Election Commission's impartiality, and pledged to continue raising their voices for fair elections. Concerns were voiced regarding the forceful suppression of peaceful protests, viewed as an unhealthy sign for a robust democracy.