Congress Vows to Hold Prayagraj Student Event Despite Venue Revocation

Congress leader Pawan Khera declared on Thursday that Rahul Gandhi’s 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' programme in Prayagraj will proceed as planned on August 8, dismissing the sudden withdrawal of venue permission by KP College as a deliberate attempt by the ruling BJP to stifle opposition and suppress student voices.

Editorial·August 6, 2026·reads: 1,100

Congress Vows to Hold Prayagraj Student Event Despite Venue Revocation

The management of KP College revoked permission for the event on Wednesday, citing an August 14, 2025, Allahabad High Court order that prioritizes the protection of academic activities. Acting President of Kayasth Pathshala, Chaudhary Jitendra Nath Singh, informed the City Congress Committee that the sports ground would remain unavailable due to potential rain damage and the risk of disrupting school operations. The college advised organizers to reschedule for a holiday period after the monsoon season, offering a full refund of the deposit.

Despite the setback, Congress leadership remains defiant. Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President Ajay Rai insisted that preparations continue regardless of the bureaucratic hurdles. Khera framed the college’s decision as proof of the BJP’s apprehension toward Gandhi, asserting that the party will not be deterred by administrative obstacles. The 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' initiative, which previously held rallies in Kota and Dehradun, aims to amplify student concerns on a national stage.