Thirumavalavan backs INDIA bloc protest, calls for ‘people’s movement’ against EVMs

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan on Wednesday said the INDIA bloc’s protest in New Delhi should evolve into a “people’s movement” against electronic voting machines (EVMs).

In a statement, Mr. Thirumavalavan said on October 7, more than 100 MPs and INDIA bloc leaders, including Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, took part in the protest. 

Mr. Thirumavalavan said he witnessed Mr. Gandhi and Ms. Priyanka Gandhi continuing their protest despite the police action. He particularly highlighted Ms. Priyanka Gandhi holding a copy of the Constitution during the protest.

He said the two-day protest had strengthened his belief in the need for opposition parties to work together to “protect the Constitution and the country”. He alleged the issue went beyond electoral concerns and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Chief Election Commissioner.

Mr. Thirumavalavan said the protest should not remain limited to demanding the Chief Election Commissioner’s resignation but should develop into a mass movement against the Modi government and EVMs.