Tripura Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury on Saturday criticised the Narendra Modi-led Union government after Delhi Police detained him, former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar and several other CPI(M) leaders during a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Following his detention, Chaudhury accused the Centre of attempting to protect the Chief Election Commissioner and alleged that the government’s actions were undermining democratic institutions and constitutional rights.
“The beginning of the downfall of the Modi government has started today,” Chaudhury said, claiming that the Centre’s response was aimed at shielding Gyanesh Kumar from criticism.
The CPI(M) leader further alleged that the government was suppressing dissent rather than addressing concerns raised by Opposition parties. He expressed particular concern over what he described as threats to the democratic rights of students and young people.
Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chaudhury questioned reports of restrictions on hotels, restaurants, bus services and internet connectivity in Delhi amid heightened security arrangements.
He argued that such measures raised serious questions about democratic freedoms and urged citizens to unite in defence of constitutional principles and independent democratic institutions.
Chaudhury also questioned what action Delhi Police would take next following the detention of Opposition leaders participating in the demonstration.
The detention of Chaudhury, Sarkar and other CPI(M) leaders has intensified the party’s opposition to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Opposition leaders have alleged that the authorities’ response to the protests threatens constitutional safeguards and democratic rights.
The situation in the national capital remains politically sensitive as protests and detentions continue to fuel tensions between the Opposition and the Union government.