New Delhi | October 12, 2026
Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant has declined a request from INDIA bloc leaders to meet him over alleged electoral irregularities, advising them to approach the Supreme Court through a formal petition. The decision comes ahead of the opposition alliance’s planned march to the court on October 12.
Why Did the CJI Decline the Meeting?
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi had sought an appointment to submit a memorandum on alleged electoral fraud, popularly described by opposition leaders as “vote chori”.
According to reports citing sources, the CJI said the issues were already pending before the Supreme Court and should be addressed through judicial proceedings rather than an administrative meeting with political representatives.
Opposition Plans March to Supreme Court
The INDIA bloc’s planned march is linked to objections over the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Opposition parties have alleged wrongful voter deletions and demanded a halt to the exercise, along with the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The leaders have said they intend to present their concerns and seek judicial intervention. The allegations remain contested, and the Election Commission has defended its voter-verification process.
Legal Route Remains Open
The CJI’s response does not prevent opposition leaders from filing a petition. Reports indicate that related matters were already scheduled for consideration by the Supreme Court, meaning any new petition could be dealt with through the court’s established judicial process.
The development highlights the distinction between the Supreme Court’s administrative functions and its role in hearing legal disputes. The allegations concerning electoral rolls will require consideration through the appropriate legal process.
