Opposition urges President Murmu to meet over SIR controversy and CEC removal

Opposition parties, represented by figures such as Derek O’Brien, have written to President Droupadi Murmu requesting a meeting to air concerns over the SIR issue and to press for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The request comes after a massive march of over 300 opposition MPs was halted by Delhi Police near Akashvani Bhavan, with leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and KC Venugopal detained on the spot.

In a separate development, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha lawmaker John Brittas announced that President Murmu had forwarded his earlier letter demanding action against the CEC to the legislative department. Brittas said he is now awaiting the department’s response, which he believes should result in Kumar’s removal. The opposition plans to seek an appointment with the President on Thursday or Friday to keep its protest drive alive.

Former Lok Sabha secretary-general PDT Achari noted that the President’s response to Brittas’ private letter does not preclude a broader meeting with the opposition. The unfolding dispute highlights tensions between the ruling establishment and a unified opposition bloc.