Congress Leaders Cry Foul Over Democratic Rights Ahead of PM Modi’s Visit to Kevadia

Surat : A tense situation unfolded in Narmada District as Sandeepsinh Mangrola, a prominent Congress leader responsible for the Narmada District Congress, along with a substantial number of Congress leaders, faced extended house arrests early Tuesday morning.

This action by the local crime branch (LCB) and the GIDC police coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ekta Nagar (Kevadia) on the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary, celebrated as National Unity Day.

Mangrola, who was confined within his home, expressed dismay over the suppression of voices by the state government to stifle dissent. He emphasized the importance of a healthy democracy, stating, “This is not accepted in a healthy democracy where all citizens have the right to protest and voice their anger against the ruling government.”

Describing the events of his house arrest, Mangrola recounted, “The police arrived early in the morning, informing me that I was under house arrest. Similar police deployment was seen outside the houses of other Congress leaders in the region.”

The Congress leader highlighted his discontent with the state’s law and order, attributing the situation to the inexperience of those governing the state. Mangrola pointed out alleged governmental negligence towards issues like widespread food adulteration, including ghee and other essential food items, and a lack of investigations into reported scams.

Furthermore, Mangrola criticized the government’s prevention of Congress leaders from participating in events at Kevadia to celebrate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary, marking a notable day in India’s history.

The incident, which occurred during a significant national celebration, has sparked controversy, with the opposition decrying what they perceive as an infringement on their fundamental democratic rights, further igniting tensions between the ruling party and opposition factions in the region.