Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 19: In a show of strength, the Opposition in Maharashtra has announced a massive protest against the Election Commission of India (EC), alleging irregularities in the voters’ list and a lack of transparency in the electoral process. The protest, named the ‘Virat Morcha’, is scheduled for November 1 in Mumbai.

The decision follows multiple meetings between representatives of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and EC officials. Dissatisfied with the responses from the poll body, the opposition has now decided to take the issue to the streets.

Speaking at a joint press conference, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said, “On November 1, a Virat Morcha will be held in Mumbai under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, Raj Thackeray, and senior Congress leaders. Lakhs of voters from across the state, who have been deprived of their right to vote, will participate in this morcha.”

The Opposition has raised concerns over discrepancies in voter names and addresses, irregularities in the verification process, and the perceived withholding of crucial information by the EC. NCP leader Jayant Patil stressed, “Transparency is key to democracy. Those who wish to safeguard democracy must participate in this Morcha.”

The press conference saw the participation of senior leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP, Congress, MNS, and CPI. MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar, who returned to Shiv Sena Bhavan after 24 years for the event, said, “The EC has issued instructions to district magistrates, acknowledging the shortcomings. The MNS will urge all Maharashtrians to join this Morcha. We have come together because we want to save democracy.”

The ‘Virat Morcha’ is expected to draw large crowds, highlighting growing public concern over electoral transparency in the state.