CJI Surya Kant Rejects Congress Meeting Request; Rahul Gandhi Leads Supreme Court March Today

Why Did CJI Surya Kant Decline the Meeting?

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has declined a meeting request from Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, who wanted to submit a memorandum regarding alleged electoral irregularities and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists.

According to reports by India Today and Bar & Bench, the CJI communicated his decision by email. The issues raised by the Opposition are already before the Supreme Court, and the Chief Justice indicated that the leaders should use the judicial process rather than seek administrative intervention.

The distinction is important. The Supreme Court cannot use its administrative side to issue directions on matters that require judicial consideration. The leaders remain free to approach the Court through the proper legal process.

Reports say related matters may be heard on Tuesday, October 13. Whether the Congress files a fresh petition and whether it is taken up alongside existing cases will depend on the Court's procedure.

Congress Plans ‘March for Democracy’

Despite the refusal, the Congress-led INDIA bloc has announced a march towards the Supreme Court on Monday, October 12.

The party has named it “Chalo Delhi – March for Democracy.” Participants were asked to assemble near the Connaught Place–Barakhamba Road junction at 1:30 pm.

Rahul Gandhi has appealed to Opposition parties, young people and civil society groups to participate. The memorandum is intended to raise concerns about alleged “vote chori”, demand a halt to the SIR exercise and seek the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the leaders wanted to explain their concerns to the CJI and request his intervention. The party has also indicated that it may renew its request for a meeting, although no formal announcement of a fresh request had been confirmed in the reports available before the march.

The allegations of electoral irregularities remain contested. The Election Commission maintains that electoral-roll revision follows established legal procedures. Claims of wrongful deletions or manipulation need to be examined through evidence and the appropriate legal process.

What Happens Next?

The immediate question is whether the Opposition proceeds with its march and pursues its demands through a formal court petition. Delhi authorities have tightened security and announced restrictions affecting parts of the city, including temporary closures at several metro stations.

Separately, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has said it intends to seek permission from Delhi Police for a peaceful protest. Its agitation also centres on the SIR process and the demand for Gyanesh Kumar's resignation.

The central issue is now whether the Opposition's allegations will be tested through legal proceedings and what response the Election Commission provides. A march can draw public attention, but the claims themselves must ultimately be assessed on evidence and law.