Police in Uttarakhand used water cannons on Tuesday to disperse Congress leaders and workers marching towards the state Legislative Assembly in Bhararisain, Gairsain, to stage a gherao protest against the BJP-led state government.
The protest was organised by the Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee to raise concerns over rising inflation, unemployment, alleged corruption and other public issues. The demonstration coincided with the beginning of the two-day Assembly session on October 27.
Congress Accuses Government of Ignoring Public Concerns
Led by state Congress president Ganesh Godiyal, party leaders accused the government of failing to address issues affecting ordinary citizens. The party said the protest was intended to highlight what it described as anti-people policies and demand accountability from the ruling BJP.
Congress had announced the Assembly gherao as part of its wider campaign on public-interest issues, including unemployment, inflation, corruption and concerns over governance. The party said it would continue raising these issues both on the streets and inside the legislature.
Security Tightened Around Assembly Complex
Security arrangements were strengthened around the Assembly complex in Bhararisain ahead of the demonstration. Police barricades were installed at several approach points, while police personnel and the Provincial Armed Constabulary were deployed to manage the situation and prevent protesters from reaching the Assembly premises.
Water cannons were used as the march progressed towards the Assembly. The action came amid heightened political tensions as the ruling party and the Opposition prepared to debate key issues during the short legislative session.
BJP Defends Its Development Agenda
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the government was presenting a supplementary budget focused on the state's overall development, with provisions for new schemes and innovation.
He urged the Opposition to adopt a constructive approach, saying substantive discussions and decisions should take place inside the Assembly.
The protest highlights the growing political confrontation in Uttarakhand, with Congress intensifying its criticism of the BJP government ahead of the next Assembly elections.