Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Central government, alleging that democratic values in the country are under serious threat following the police crackdown on Opposition leaders and protesters in New Delhi. Referring to the detention of several Members of Parliament and political activists, she claimed that constitutional rights were being curtailed and accused the government of suppressing dissent. Priyanka alleged that actions taken against protesters reflected an attempt to silence opposition voices and weaken democratic institutions.

Speaking on the developments in the national capital, Priyanka Gandhi criticised the extensive security arrangements put in place across Delhi, including barricades, checkpoints, restrictions on public transport and reported internet disruptions. She claimed that these measures prevented citizens from exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest. The Congress leader further alleged that the government was acting out of fear of accountability and accused it of undermining democratic processes, while reiterating her criticism of the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

The remarks came as Delhi witnessed heightened political tensions during protests related to the Election Commission, with police detaining several political leaders, activists and demonstrators attempting to reach Jantar Mantar. Among those detained were members of the Campaign for Judicial and Police Reforms (CJP), along with leaders from various Opposition parties. The protest and the subsequent police action have triggered a fresh political confrontation, with the Opposition accusing the government of curbing democratic freedoms, while authorities maintain that security measures were necessary to preserve law and order.