Congress says Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Indore postponed after MP govt snub - The Times of India

**Congress claims Rahul Gandhi’s “Chhatron Ki Goonj” postponed after Madhya Pradesh government denial of stadium access**

The Indian National Congress announced that its flagship student outreach programme, “Chhatron Ki Goonj,” slated to be led by Rahul Gandhi in Indore, has been postponed following what it described as a “snub” by the Madhya Pradesh (MP) state government. The event, originally set for 12 September at the city’s Nehru Stadium, was to feature rallies, cultural performances and a dialogue with university students aimed at reviving the party’s grassroots presence ahead of the 2024 general elections. On receiving a denial of permission to use the stadium, the Congress delegation moved the programme to 19 September while continuing to seek an alternative venue.

Congress officials, including senior leader Ashok Chandrakar, appealed to the BJP‑led state administration headed by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for a “fair and timely” nod to the stadium, arguing that the venue is a public asset that should be available for democratic gatherings. The state government, however, has not issued an official statement clarifying the reasons for the refusal, with local media reports suggesting concerns over security and logistical arrangements. The party’s spokesperson, Priyanka Sinha, warned that the postponement could hamper the momentum of the student outreach, urging the government to “respect democratic space” and avoid politicising public infrastructure.

Political analysts note that the clash underscores the broader contest between the opposition and the ruling BJP in a state that remains a crucial battleground for the upcoming national polls. While the Congress hopes to reconvene the programme on the revised date, it may also explore other venues such as university auditoriums or community halls to ensure the event proceeds. The state’s final decision on the stadium request is likely to be watched closely, as it could set a precedent for the handling of political rallies in MP during an election‑charged season.