The national capital is poised for a major political showdown on November 1 as the Bharatiya Janata Party readies a counter-offensive against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's scheduled mass gathering. While Congress is mobilising cadres and allies to orchestrate a vast display of opposition strength at Ramlila Maidan, the ruling party has drawn up plans to hold its own protest march on the exact same date, ensuring an intense day of political crossfire in Delhi.
Congress Gears Up for Mega Show at Ramlila Maidan
Preparations are underway within Congress ranks for the massive gathering planned at the iconic Ramlila Maidan. Key partners from the opposition INDIA bloc are slated to share the stage with Rahul Gandhi, underscoring broader coalition unity ahead of critical political milestones. High-profile regional leaders, including Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav and Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee, are set to take part in the event. Congress organisers have asserted that around 10 lakh people will assemble at the venue, projecting the rally as a resounding public statement against the government.
BJP's Parallel Demonstration in Hari Nagar
Seeking to blunt the impact of the opposition's gathering, the BJP has scheduled a counter-march in west Delhi's Hari Nagar starting at 11 am on November 1. The demonstration will feature prominent Sikh leaders from the BJP alongside other senior party functionaries. Crucially, the march is organised to bring together victims and surviving family members of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, turning historical grievances into a central focal point of the protest. Around 5,000 participants are expected to join the Hari Nagar procession, setting up two contrasting demonstrations across the city on the same day.
