Rahul Gandhi booked for trespass at Akashvani Bhavan protest

The Cliff News | 7 October 2026

Delhi Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with several other individuals, for allegedly forcibly entering the Akashvani Bhavan premises on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. The incident occurred during a protest staged by the INDIA bloc.

The legal action follows a day after approximately 260 people, including 10 Members of Parliament, were detained by the Delhi Police. Protesters from the INDIA bloc had marched from Parliament towards the Election Commission of India's office. Police stated that the demonstrators breached barricades and continued their march despite multiple warnings to disperse.

Protestors Enter Akashvani Bhavan

While many protesters were detained during the march, Mr. Gandhi, Ms. Gandhi Vadra, and other opposition leaders proceeded to Akashvani Bhavan. They staged a sit-in protest at the premises for several hours after being prevented from reaching the Election Commission. The leaders were subsequently removed and detained by the police.

The FIR was lodged based on a complaint filed by Akashvani staffers. They alleged that Mr. Gandhi, Ms. Gandhi Vadra, and their accompanying group entered the facility despite facing resistance. The opposition's protest was primarily to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Allegations and Official Statements

According to police sources, no permission was obtained from the Deputy Commissioner of Police for the New Delhi district for the march on October 6, 2026. Consequently, permission was not granted. Police also indicated that restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita were in effect in the New Delhi area at the time.

Congress MP Imran Masood refuted the claims of forcible entry. He emphasized that Mr. Gandhi, as the Leader of the Opposition, was accompanied by other MPs and did not force his way into any premises. Mr. Masood asserted that national institutions belong to the country and not to any single political party, accusing authorities of denying the opposition a chance to meet with officials.

“No one is ready to meet. Now we will go and sit in front of their houses,” Mr. Masood stated, indicating the opposition's resolve.

Opposition Vows to Continue Protests

Mr. Masood further stated that the registration of the FIR would not deter the opposition from continuing their protests. He warned against any misconception that they would retreat due to the threat of legal action. This development is part of a series of protests in Delhi concerning allegations related to the electoral process and demanding action against the Chief Election Commissioner.