Thousands expected at Rahul Gandhi’s Pune event; no road closures, traffic police to monitor

Organisers anticipate a large gathering of nearly 10,000 people for Rahul Gandhi’s Chhatron ki Goonj event in Pune, set to take place on Saturday, August 22, at 5 pm at the AISSMS college ground. This marks the fourth such interaction event for Gandhi nationwide, with this one being exclusively for women. Maharashtra Pradesh Youth Congress leader Shivani Waddetivar highlighted Pune's historical significance as a hub for women's education, stating that Gandhi aimed to engage directly with women, as opposed to gender-neutral events where men usually dominate.

A music concert in the city on August 19 served as a prelude to Gandhi’s visit, with a large cut-out of him placed on Fergusson College Road. Shivani noted the overwhelming support from non-political women, providing context to Kanhaiya Kumar, the All India Congress Committee in-charge of the National Students Union (NSUI), who addressed a press conference in the city.

Kumar emphasized the plight of students unable to attend school, echoing Gandhi's message that education is a fundamental right, but is being transformed into a privilege. He claimed that opposition to the event reflects an attempt to suppress voices advocating for reforms in the education sector.

Despite BJP’s objection, there are no road closures or diversions in Pune city for the event. Traffic police personnel will be stationed at various points to manage vehicular traffic from 4:30 pm to 10 pm. Additional Commissioner of Police Manoj Patil confirmed the absence of road closures or diversions. However, the police have granted the event permission under certain conditions, including compliance with noise pollution norms, prohibition of drones for photography and videography, ensuring emergency access for police and fire brigade vehicles and ambulances, providing sufficient vehicle parking, and avoiding offensive or objectionable banners.

Extra police personnel will also be on duty at the venue and surrounding areas to maintain law and order.