Congress plans massive rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan amid trader opposition

New Delhi – The Congress party is preparing a rally for November 1 at Ramlila Maidan, describing the event as a key test of its organisational capacity and a platform for its campaign to remove Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Party officials have said they hope to attract up to one million participants, though even a turnout of half that number would be presented as a success.

The rally follows a series of logistical setbacks, including the denial of permission to hold a planned "mock parliament" at the Ashok Hotel and later at the maidan itself. Police have not yet granted clearance for the latter venue.

Local traders have protested the planned gathering, citing concerns that the influx of attendees and vehicles could disrupt commerce during the peak festive season. They have appealed to the Congress to postpone the rally until after Diwali.

"We value you and have heard your concerns," Rahul Gandhi wrote in response, adding that the government had previously shut down metro services and closed roads in Delhi. He urged the Prime Minister to remove "Accused No. 4," Gyanesh Kumar, suggesting that the protest would end quickly if the demand were met.

The Congress argues that a large crowd could boost local business as visitors shop in the area, while traders contend that traffic congestion and disruption would outweigh any benefits. The party's General Secretary (Organisation), KC Venugopal, has been coordinating mobilisation efforts across states, with Haryana assigned the largest target for attendance.

The outcome of the rally is expected to influence the Congress's future strategy, its cohesion within the broader INDIA bloc, and plans for additional protests in other parts of the country.