ABVP, NSUI students clash in Pune ahead of Rahul Gandhi’s Chhatron ki Goonj event

Political tensions have surfaced ahead of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's "Chhatron Ki Goonj" event in Pune on Saturday. The BJP claims they are offering cash incentives to attendees and social media influencers to promote the event, dubbing it a "crowd-gathering money scheme." The BJP has also alleged that thousands of rupees are being distributed to generate social media posts, and that Pune residents turned away Rahul Gandhi during his previous visit.

In a post on X, the BJP leader asserted that the event, presented as "Voice of the Students," is actually an "echo of money." However, the BJP's claims are yet to be independently verified. The allegations stem from a purported phone conversation in which a social media influencer was offered Rs 25,000 to attend the event and produce content related to it, including two to three videos on social media.

The BJP claims this arrangement aimed to create promotional content and generate the impression of strong public support for Gandhi's programme. Another WhatsApp message has surfaced, allegedly offering ₹400 to people, including junior actors and actresses, to attend the event with transport provided. The veracity of this message remains unverified.

The programme is intended to provide a platform for women students to discuss issues such as education, safety, equality, and career opportunities with Rahul Gandhi. The event has already faced criticism over its mobilisation methods, with ABVP (All India Brahmin Students' Union) members alleging that Congress and Youth Congress workers were forcing female students to register for the event.