Congress workers protested in Varanasi, observing a symbolic fast near statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Ambedkar. The demonstration, under the banner 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram,' opposed the repeal of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and the introduction of the new Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin). Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai outlined future state-wide rallies, with Rahul Gandhi expected at a main rally in Lucknow.