According to Indian media reports, on Tuesday morning, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi began a sit-in protest in front of the Prime Minister's official residence. When he announced he would continue the protest overnight, police detained him. He was later released from Chhatrasal Stadium.
Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi released hours after detention
At the same time, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi was also detained and taken to Mandir Marg police station. She was released after a few hours. Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi visited the police station at night. She stayed for some time and then returned.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police on Tuesday released 70 more people who were detained the previous day in connection with clashes between police and BJP supporters. Additionally, six cases have been filed regarding damage to government property.
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Earlier, Congress leaders and workers marched from party president Mallikarjun Kharge's residence towards the Prime Minister's official residence. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav also joined the march. Additional police and Rapid Action Force were deployed in the area to maintain control.
The protesters demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Although Union Minister Jitendra Singh went to the spot and held talks with Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leadership remained firm on continuing the sit-in protest.
On the other hand, the BJP claims the entire program was politically motivated. However, Somnath Bharti alleged that Rahul Gandhi was trying to send a political message through this program instead of addressing the ongoing student-youth movements.