Tripura Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury on Saturday launched a strong attack on the Narendra Modi-led Union government and Union Home Minister Amit Shah after Delhi Police detained him, former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar and several other CPI(M) leaders during a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Reacting to the detention, Chaudhury alleged that the Centre was attempting to protect the Chief Election Commissioner while restricting the democratic rights of citizens and suppressing opposition voices.
“The beginning of the downfall of the Modi government has started today,” Chaudhury said, accusing the BJP-led government of taking steps to shield Gyanesh Kumar from mounting criticism.
The CPI(M) leader claimed that the developments in the national capital reflected a growing challenge to democratic freedoms and constitutional rights. He also expressed concern over the alleged curbs on dissent, particularly the rights of students and young people to raise their voices against decisions they oppose.
Chaudhury further alleged that restrictions had been imposed on hotels, restaurants, bus services and internet connectivity in Delhi amid the protest-related developments. He questioned the necessity of such measures and argued that they raised concerns about the space available for democratic expression.
Accusing the Centre of failing to address the Opposition’s concerns, the Tripura LoP called upon citizens to unite in defence of constitutional values and democratic institutions. He stressed that protecting civil liberties and ensuring the independence of constitutional bodies were essential to the functioning of a democracy.
The detention of Chaudhury, Sarkar and other CPI(M) leaders has intensified the political confrontation surrounding the protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar. The Opposition has questioned the authorities’ response to the demonstration, while the detained leaders’ remarks have added to the political debate over the right to protest and the protection of constitutional freedoms.
