Congress workers protest detention of senior party leaders in Karnataka

Congress workers gathered in Kalaburagi on Tuesday to voice their opposition to the detention of three senior party leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, a member of parliament from the district. The protests reflected growing tensions between the opposition party and state authorities over the arrest of prominent figures during what the Congress described as a planned political action.

Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were also taken into custody along with Kharge, prompting party workers to take to the streets in the Karnataka city. Congress leaders characterised the detentions as an assault on democratic freedoms and accused the government of using law enforcement agencies to suppress legitimate political dissent.

The party mobilised its cadre across Kalaburagi, with workers demanding the immediate release of the detained leaders. Party sources claimed the arrests were part of a pattern of intimidation aimed at weakening the opposition's capacity to mobilise support among voters.

The detention of high-profile opposition figures has intensified political friction in Karnataka, a key battleground state where the Congress has significant organisational presence. The party indicated it would escalate protests if the leaders were not released promptly.