Congress accused the Uttarakhand government of blocking Rahul Gandhi’s student outreach programme
July 15, 2026: The Congress on Wednesday accused the Uttarakhand BJP government of revoking permission for Rahul Gandhi’s “Chhatro Ki Goonj” programme at Dehradun’s Parade Ground, alleging that the move was politically motivated. The event, scheduled for July 17, is part of the party’s nationwide campaign against paper leaks, examination irregularities, cancelled tests, re-examinations, and rising education costs. The administration later offered Bannu School Ground as an alternative venue.
State Congress president Ganesh Godiyal criticised the decision, calling it anti-student and undemocratic. Congress workers staged a protest march to Parade Ground, leading to a brief clash with the police. The party claimed the BJP government was attempting to prevent Rahul Gandhi from interacting with students and young people.
The district administration rejected the allegations, saying Parade Ground was unavailable because it was hosting the Lok Samvardhan Parv, which had been extended until July 17. Officials cited security, traffic management, and public convenience as reasons for denying permission at the venue, while BJP leaders dismissed Congress’s claims and maintained that the venue change was purely an administrative decision.