Fourth meeting of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc’s was held in New Delhi on 19 December, which witnessed gathering of leaders of 28 political parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections. The meeting adopted two resolutions – condemning the suspension of 142 opposition MPs from both houses of the parliament and raising concern regarding the integrity of EVMs.
Speaking after the conclusion of the meeting, Com. Dipankar, General Secretary of CPI(ML) said that the wholesale suspension of MPs from Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha for merely asking for a statement by the government regarding the parliament smoke scare incident is a gross violation of values of parliamentary democracy that was envisaged by Ambedkar in the country’s constitution.
“The Modi government wants people’s movement free streets and opposition free parliament,” added Com. Dipankar. This is why we have decided that a steadfast movement is needed to protect the country’s constitution and parliament democracy. Also, the meeting raised serious doubts regarding the functioning of EVM. The meeting has adopted has the resolution demanding implementation of ballot papers for elections and as an immediate measure [for the upcoming elections] implement a hybrid mode with 100% VVPAT slips be counted to ensure free and fair elections. We will submit a memorandum to the Election Commission regarding this.
The INDIA Alliance resolved to finalise the seat shearing process soon and also to hold mass protests across the country against the suspension of MPs from the parliament. The alliance meeting also noted that joint-campaign programs and rallies will be organised from January 2024 onwards.