Assam leaders Debabrata Saikia, Gaurav Gogoi join Delhi’s 'vote chori' protest

Guwahati: Senior Congress leaders from Assam joined the party’s “vote chori” protest at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on Sunday, alleging that the BJP-led central government is weakening democratic institutions and compromising electoral integrity.

Among the prominent leaders from Assam present at the rally were Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Assam Assembly, Debabrata Saikia, and Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi.

The demonstration, held in support of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saw participation from workers nationwide, including a significant contingent from Assam, under tight security arrangements.

Addressing the rally, Jorhat MP Gaurav Gogoi highlighted the importance of united political mobilisation. He said, “More than a thousand people from Assam have joined this protest. Many are staying in transit areas like Paharganj during their time in Delhi. When they return home, they will carry a clear message: we must work together to strengthen democracy.”

The protest primarily focused on allegations of electoral manipulation and the erosion of constitutional bodies. Reports noted that a section of participants raised objectionable slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but Congress leaders clarified that the rally’s main goal was to demand accountability, protect democratic institutions, and highlight concerns raised by Rahul Gandhi regarding electoral transparency.

Speaking to the media, LoP Debabrata Saikia criticised the BJP for what he described as “shifting narratives” aimed at influencing voters.

“From invoking the Mughal era to repeatedly referring to historical battles like Saraighat, the BJP manipulates history to suit its political agenda. These are not genuine historical discussions but calculated strategies to win votes. Rahul Gandhi has exposed this clearly,” he said.

Saikia also highlighted recent eviction drives in Assam, stating that authorities unfairly targeted ordinary citizens and branded them as outsiders.

“The people evicted by the Assam government, including those near Kaziranga, are not outsiders. They are our fellow citizens, and their voices must not be silenced through fear or misinformation,” he added.

The rally represents a continued effort by the Congress party to hold the central government accountable, framing issues of electoral integrity and democratic governance as central concerns ahead of upcoming elections.