The INDIA bloc has announced a week-long nationwide protest starting October 2 against alleged manipulation of voter lists, accusing the Election Commission of failing to act on the issue.

The opposition alliance plans a march to the Election Commission on October 6, a representation to the President of India, and a rally in Delhi on November 1. Leaders have demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, pointing to a report that two election commissioners wrote 14 letters flagging concerns about the electoral rolls.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the protest, titled Save Democracy, would ensure that those who destroyed Indian democracy are punished. The bloc alleges that voter lists have been tampered with to favour the ruling party, a charge the government has rejected in the past.

The Election Commission responded that differences of opinion among its officials are normal and that all actions taken were lawful. Officials said the commission would continue to function strictly according to the Constitution and existing laws.