TNI Bureau: The Congress has launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) following the rejection of senior leader Meenakshi Natarajan’s Rajya Sabha nomination from Madhya Pradesh, calling the move a “murder of democracy” and vowing to challenge the decision through all available legal means.

Addressing the media outside the Election Commission headquarters in New Delhi, Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal alleged that the party was denied an opportunity to present its case before the poll panel despite seeking an urgent appointment. He said the Congress had submitted a letter to the ECI within minutes of learning about the rejection and rushed to New Delhi to file a formal complaint.

Venugopal claimed Election Commission officials initially refused to meet the delegation, forcing party leaders to stage a sit-in outside the office. While some leaders were later allowed to submit a memorandum, the Congress insisted on a direct hearing before the Commission.

The party alleged that the rejection of Natarajan’s nomination was arbitrary and raised serious concerns about the functioning of democratic institutions. Congress leaders accused the Centre and the Election Commission of attempting to silence opposition voices and weaken democratic processes.

Stating that the issue goes beyond a single candidature, the Congress said it would approach the courts if necessary and continue its fight to protect constitutional values and democratic rights.

Meanwhile, the ECI has agreed to meet the Congress delegation at 12 PM on Wednesday.