Oppn & 'cockroaches' to hit streets over EC row

The opposition INDIA bloc and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) are planning intensified protests against the Election Commission from October 2, according to recent announcements. The INDIA bloc will organize district-level "Save Democracy" marches and demonstrations outside district magistrates' offices from October 2 to 8, while all Opposition MPs will march to the Election Commission in New Delhi on October 6.

The opposition alliance also plans to seek an appointment with the President to express concerns about electoral process difficulties and constitutional issues. They have announced five large rallies with dates and venues to be confirmed later.

The INDIA bloc has specifically requested greater transparency in electoral roll revisions and the use of pre-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) voter lists in future elections. They have also demanded constituency-wise and booth-wise disclosure of all additions, deletions, and corrections, prior notice, and reasons for any voter's name removal. Additionally, they have called for an effective appeal mechanism and a return to ballot-paper voting.

In a separate development, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has announced a "Jail Bharo Andolan" (Release the Prisons Movement) in Mumbai's Shivaji Park on October 2, following the denial of permission for their planned Gandhi Jayanti protest at the venue. Dipke stated, "Jail Bharo Andolan in Mumbai. October 2, Shivaji Park. #SaveDemocracy."

The organizer warned that the CJP would launch the agitation if their venue request is not granted. Mumbai Police stated that they were not authorized to grant permission for a gathering at Shivaji Park under existing court directions and government guidelines, advising the organizers to consider an alternative venue in Mumbai.