By Yakub Makwana
New Delhi, November 5, 2026: November 1 was a historic day for Indians who envision a better future for the country and its land.
I joined the protest in solidarity to stand with those who have lost their voices and identities — some due to the government’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR), millions of young adults who lack a secure future, citizens waiting for better opportunities, and farmers who have lost their land and livelihoods.
They came together to advocate for a safer, fairer India.
As I made my way to Ramlila Maidan — a New Delhi ground famous for political rallies, religious festivals, and public gatherings — several thoughts crossed my mind.
Since the morning, I had been scrolling through YouTube and social media feeds filled with conflicting accounts of the movement.
Some posts attempted to derail the protest with misleading narratives, claiming it would snarl Delhi traffic, disrupt markets and deter investors. Others strongly supported the rally. I wanted to witness the reality firsthand rather than rely solely on online commentary.
Near the New Delhi Metro station, crowds gathered on both sides of the road, chanting slogans. Anger was palpable on their faces, in their voices and through their gestures. Those who had lost faith in the government appeared most distressed.
The opposition INDIA bloc, which organized the rally, planned the route from Connaught Place to Ramlila Maidan so local business, shopping, and festival celebrations could continue uninterrupted.
What struck me most was seeing strangers walk hand-in-hand, united by a shared vision at Ramlila Maidan. Demonstrators arrived from various states and ethnic backgrounds, bringing diverse expectations.
I was reminded of Matthew 9:36 — “like sheep without a shepherd” — and how effective leaders make a difference in communities.
People from villages and slums who were seeking guidance on the nation’s direction were glad to find leaders at the grounds.
Despite differing political ideologies, leaders stood together on one platform to highlight common concerns: farmers’ struggles, unemployment and civil rights.
While attending a protest alone does not change everything, I wanted to support those facing hardships. Stripping citizens’ names from voter rolls signals that they are outsiders in their own country.
During the recent verification process, many residents from West Bengal, Karnataka, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh reportedly lost their voting rights. At the grounds, I recognized several based on the languages they spoke.
I have seen the local impact of voter verification firsthand. Some of my companions had to leave Delhi for their hometowns after learning their voter entries required verification. They left with heavy hearts, proving this is not just a political issue but a deeply personal struggle.
Coming from Gujarat and living in Delhi, I view society through multiple lenses.
My home state and city remain close to my heart, and I cannot remain indifferent to issues like job shortages, environmental crises, or drug and alcohol abuse.
Over time, I have come to believe that a commitment to justice and peace must transcend state, language and religious boundaries. I could not remain silent.
Six months ago, few dared to criticize the administration. Now, people of all ages are taking to the streets to demand their rights and freedoms. “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17). I saw that determination in their eyes.
I attended the rally believing that even a small presence contributes to the collective voice for change. Upon returning, I am left with deeper questions about our responsibility as Christians to stand with others.
We may not always have solutions, but we can listen, accompany and make ourselves available. Faith is not merely what we profess — it is how we live and act.
Yakub Makwana, a Jesuit seminarian from the Society of Jesus’ Gujarat Province is a third-year Bachelor of Theology student at the national Vidyajyoti College of Theology in New Delhi.