The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Sunday hit out at the Lieutenant Governor-led Jammu and Kashmir UT administration, saying the authorities tried to prevent the people from joining the Bharat Jodo Yatra but people defied all hurdles to take part in the Yatra.

In an exclusive chat with The Kashmir Pulse, the Congress leader said that it is a historic moment that Rahul Gandhi unfurled the tricolour at Lal Chowk as it was the location where Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, unfurled the Indian national flag in 1948, shortly after the country gained independence from the British Empire.

"The leadership of Rahul Gandhi is now established with the historic Bharat Jodo Yatra, which no one can question and all those people who spoke ill about him stand isolated. This Yatra was not about politics but to unite the country," he said when asked about the impact of the Yatra.

He went on to state, "I acknowledge the courage of Kashmiri people who participated in the Yatra in large numbers."

SRINAGAR — The national spokesperson of the Indian National Congress, Supriya Shrinate on Sunday said that the enthusiasm of people at Lal Chowk defeated the idealogy of hatred propagated by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In an exclusive conversation with The Kashmir Pulse, Supriya Shrinate said that hatred is bound to be defeated and love and truth are what bring people together, and therefore come out victorious.

"The message of love spread by Bharat Jodo Yatra has resonated very well with the people of India. The Yatra might have ended in physical form but the issues of unemployment, inflation, poverty, the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few, and the atmosphere of hatred will continue to be fought with the same zeal," Supriya added.

She went on to state, "BJP spread a lot of lies about the Bharat Jodo Yatra but the truth came out every time and as Rahul Gandhi says that truth is like sunshine which can be shrouded by clouds for some time but eventually pierces through these."

When asked about the impact of the Yatra, Supriya said that the opposition is united and a united opposition is what will eventually take up all the issues facing our people with all the more intensity.

In her message to Kashmiri people, she said that the Congress party will try its best to safeguard the trust that people have expressed by participating in the Bharat Jodo Yatra in huge numbers.

SRINAGAR — A man drove on a tractor all the way from Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi city and reached Srinagar on Sunday to participate in Bharat Jodo Yatra and support Congress leader and Member of Parliament, Rahul Gandhi.

The man, while speaking to The Kashmir Pulse, identified himself as Suraj Matey and said that he is an ordinary farmer. "I support Congress and have come here to take part in Bharat Jodo Yatra."

He hailed the hospitality of Kashmiris and said that he was offered tea and breakfast minutes after he parked his tractor at a local taxi stand in Srinagar.

While speaking of the impact of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Suraj said that the businessman Gautam Adani's shares were continuing the bloodbath. "This is just a hint of the huge impact that Bharat Jodo Yatra has achieved," he said and went on to give reference to Hindenburg Research, an investment research firm.

"There were many attempts to break the country on the basis of religion, caste, and creed before as well. However, the sacrifices of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi kept the country united and the government in the Centre won't also be able to achieve its designs," he said while accusing Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) of spreading hatred.

Another Yatri, Tufail Ahmad Khan, identified himself as the Vice-Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee and said that he had come with his associates from Kanpur.

Tufail Ahmad said that the message of Rahul Gandhi through the Bharat Jodo Yatra was very important for the progress of the country at par with the rest of the world. "The BJP has been bringing disrepute to the nation through its policies and people throughout the country are now realizing the same and siding with the Congress leader."

Referring to the policies of the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir, the UP Congress vice-president said that BJP has been sowing the seeds of hatred in the Valley of Kashmir as well and in contrast, Rahul Gandhi's march brought the message of love and brotherhood.

SRINAGAR — Donning the Kashmiri traditional gown (Pheran), Congress leader and Member of Parliament (MP) Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he was warned that he might be attacked in Kashmir but people here did not give him hand grenades but hearts full of love.

Amid snowfall in Srinagar, according to Srinagar-based news agency KDC, opposition party leaders joined Rahul Gandhi to mark the culmination of the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Leaders of DMK, NC, PDP, CPI, RSP, and IUML were present for the event.

The Congress rally was held at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium. Congress President Mallikarjun Karge and the party's General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were also present at the rally.

At the event, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said, “Bharat Jodo Yatra was not for winning elections but against hate.”

Rahul Gandhi said he was warned about an alleged attack on him during the final rally marking the conclusion of the Bharat Jodo Yatra in Srinagar. “Several people advised me to traverse the Yatra in a vehicle. My security team, KC Venugopal, and those organizing it advised me to do so. The administration, maybe to scare me, said that grenades would be thrown at me. Why shouldn’t I give those who hate me a chance to turn the colour of my white shirt to red?" he asked.

He added, "My family and Gandhi ji have taught me that if I have to live my life, I must live it fearlessly. But as I thought, instead of tossing grenades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir opened their hearts and embraced me.”

Speaking at the rally, Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and said that the rally was not organized for him or Congress but was against the ideology that was destroying the foundation of the country. "People of J&K didn’t give me hand grenades but love," he said.

Rahul said, “What is Kashmiryat? It’s the thought of Shiv ji… on the other hand, in Islam, it’s called Fanaa. Thinking is the same, the thought of Lord Shiva is Kashmiriyat, you can call it 'Shunyata' and I have attacked my own thoughts and my pride.”

"Like phone calls would’ve gone to Pulwama martyrs, I also received a similar call when I was in America about my father’s assassination. People die in Kashmir, I understand what it feels when you get such phone calls," Rahul said, adding that the aim of this Yatra is to stop such phone calls to any son, father or mother. Be it a soldier or common man.

Speaking at a public rally in Srinagar, Rahul Gandhi said, "I did not do the Yatra for myself or Congress, the aim is to stand against an ideology that wants to destroy the foundation of the country."

"I went from down (Kanyakumari) to up (Kashmir). I was thinking that earlier my ancestors came from up to down (Allahabad). When I was coming here (Jammu and Kashmir), I felt I was coming home," he said.

Gandhi, while narrating a story of four children whom he met during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, said that they were beggars who did not wear sweaters, and shivered in winter, which inspired him not to do the same during the Yatra.

"…Four children came to me. They were beggars and had no clothes on…I hugged them…They were cold and shivering. Maybe they didn't have food. I thought that if they're not wearing jackets or sweaters, I too shouldn't wear the same…," Gandhi said.

While signing off from the stage at SK Stadium here, Rahu said, “I have not done this work for myself or the party. But this work was done for the people of India. It is our endeavour that we stand unitedly against the ideology that is trying to break this country. I know once we stand unitedly against it, we can beat them and remove that ideology from their hearts. We are opening a shop of love in the marketplace of hatred.”

Speaking at the finale of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, CPI leader D Raja said, "All secular parties must come together to liberate the country from BJP."

Speaking on the occasion, Rahul’s sister, Priyanka Gandhi said that the main message of BJY was to spread love and call for the end of hatred by bringing the hearts together. “Finally, we have succeeded,” she said.

Jammu and Kashmir ex-chief minister of erstwhile state and National Conference vice president Omar Abdulla at the culmination of Bharat Jodo Yatra said, "I request Rahul Gandhi to undertake Yatra from west to east, would like to walk with him."

While as PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said, "Whole country is seeing a ray of hope in Rahul Gandhi."

SRINAGAR — Congress leader and Member of Parliament Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that there has been no change in the security situation in Jammu & Kashmir given the targeted killings and bomb blasts here. He, however, stated he would not go back to the past but would look forward to the best in the Union Territory.

Addressing a press conference at Taj Vivanta Hotel in Srinagar, Rahul Gandhi, as per the news agency KNO, said he was not happy with what he saw in Jammu and Kashmir. “In fact, I was saddened when I walked through J&K as nobody is happy here and Ladakh as well.”

He added restoration of the democratic process and statehood is imperative and the fundamental right of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Gandhi, who was flanked by General Secretary Incharge Communication Jairam Ramesh, Incharge J&K Rajni Patil, JKPCC President Vikar Rasool Wani, former PCC President Ghulam Ahmad Mir, former MP Tariq Hameed Karra, PCC Working President Raman Bhalla, former deputy chief minister Tara Chand and others, said the motive behind the Yatra was to spread love amid hatred being spread by BJP and RSS across the country.

“The Yatra has culminated in Srinagar and the main function will be held tomorrow. I got a lot to experience through this Yatra, met lakhs of people and talked to them. I have no words to describe my journey as I got a good response from the people all across including J&K. It was the best experience of my life," he said.

Gandhi said during the Yatra people raised two important issues which included unemployment and price hike. “I thank all the people across the country, media and the Yatris, CRPF, police and others who extended their support to us,” he said.

He further said the Yatra was not the Congress party's Yatra, but instead of party leaders, who walked most in it. “The Yatra gave an alternative vision to the people amidst existing BJP and RSS vision that is filled with hatred and violence. Now, the people have two ways with them, one is aimed to suppress people and another is full of love and affection,” he said.

He further said this Yatra has not ended but it is a first step as there is a lot more to do in the future for an alternative vision for the people and some active measures will be taken in this regard.

About his Yatra in J&K, he said that he met a lot of people here and nobody is happy. “I met people in Jammu, Ladakh and Kashmir, nobody was happy here. I am not happy with what I see in J&K, in fact, I got saddened when I walk through J&K. While entering J&K, a strange idea came to my mind about my family that descended from J&K and went to Allahabad,” he said.

He said it felt like he was going home and that was a powerful feeling. “I have affection towards people of J&K. I came here with an open heart and open arms to help in whatever way I can. I was humbled by the reception we got. I think love and affection and listening is a powerful force," he said while replying to a query.

On being asked about the abrogation of Article 370 and its restoration, he said they cleared their position in the party’s working committee document.

About the improvement in the security situation, he said the argument doesn't work at a time of targeted killings, bomb blasts and other things. “If the situation has improved, let Union Home Minister Amit Shah hold a rally from Jammu to Srinagar,” he said.

About the land laws, he said he has already spoken over the issue and whenever an elected government is formed, it can take a decision accordingly.

SRINAGAR — Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi unfurled the national flag at Lal Chowk in Srinagar city in the presence of his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other party leaders, and marked the end of the foot-march that began on September 7 last year.

An unnamed official, quoted by the news agency KNS, said that Rahul Gandhi hoisted the national flag at Srinagar's iconic Lal Chowk in presence of sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other party leaders. Pertinently, Sunday marks the last walking day of the Yatra.

Earlier, prominent leaders like PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah joined Gandhi, along with his sister Priyanka in Awantipora and Banihal, respectively.

Notably, the Kanyakumari to Kashmir Yatra started from the southern tip of the country on September 7 and ends on January 30 in Srinagar, some 145 days and nearly 4,000 km later.

Rahul Gandhi’s tricolour hoisting in Lal Chowk shows drastic change in J&K: Ravinder Raina

Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) J&K President, Ravinder Raina on Sunday said the hoisting of tricolour in Lal Chowk by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shows a drastic change in Jammu and Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370.

Raina said that hoisting the tricolour in Srinagar clearly shows a drastic change in the ground situation in J&K and added, “All credit goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s able leadership for this gross change.”

“It took Congress and its leaders 70 years to hoist the national flag in Lal Chowk. If Rahul Gandhi hoisted tricolour today, it happened only due to the bold leadership of PM Narendra Modi”, Raina said.

Praising the efforts of PM Modi, the BJP leader said the way PM Modi assaulted anti-national elements and rejuvenate the lost confidence among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “The PM Modi restored peace and brotherhood in J&K post-abrogation of Article 370 and 35(A), then it became possible for Rahul Gandhi-like leaders to come and hoist the flag in J&K,” Raina said.

While criticizing the Congress leadership, Raina said, “No Congress leader dared till date to hoist the national flag in Lal Chowk. Be it Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Raju Gandhi or Sonia Gandhi who headed United Progressive Alliance (UPA) for 10 years but no one among them dared to ensure peace in J&K and hoist tricolour here.”

He hailed PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah for bringing peace to J&K and added, “After the eco-system of anti-national elements stood collapsed, Rahul Gandhi felt the need to visit Kashmir valley and hoist the tricolour here.”

“Had there been a Congress government, the hoisting of the tricolour in Lal Chowk would not have been possible,” Raina added.

SRINAGAR — The All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Saturday launched the theme song of Bharat Jodo Yatra in Kashmiri language in Srinagar.

As per the news agency KNO, the theme song of the Yatra in Kashmiri language was launched during a press conference at PCC headquarters in Srinagar.

Congress General Secretary In-charge Communication Jairam Ramesh said the theme song has been launched in nine languages so far.

SRINAGAR — The Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra on Saturday resumed from Awantipora where former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and her daughter Iltija Mufti joined the march.

Besides, Priyanka Gandhi walked alongside the former Congress president amidst tight security arrangements before the Yatra stopped for a break at Lethpora. The Yatra was scheduled to halt at Panthachowk for the night. Thereafter, the Yatra would resume on Sunday morning from Pantha Chowk and will culminate near Nehru Park on Boulevard Road in the heart of the city.

On Monday, Gandhi will unfurl the tricolour at JKPCC headquarters at M.A. Road here, following which a public rally at SK Stadium is scheduled to be held for which 23 political parties have been invited.

Former chief ministers including Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that Rahul Gandhi's ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra has received a massive response from the people across south Kashmir.

"Rahul Gandhi’s Yatra comes like a breath of fresh air in Kashmir. It is the first time since 2019 that Kashmiris have come out of their homes in such massive numbers. Was a great experience to walk with him," the PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said.

Similarly, National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah, who also joined the Yatra on Friday, said that the talking heads are largely silent and the channels don’t really want to talk about it but you don’t have to be visually challenged to see the Bharat Joda Yatra has got a very good response from Kashmiris. "Young and old, men and women, have been lining the road and marching for unity," Omar said.

He said that the most glaring silence has been from those “Kashmir experts” who waste no opportunity to paint Kashmiris as anti-national, communal, and intolerant. The public participation flies in the face of this propaganda and that explains the total radio silence, he added.

Meanwhile, ADGP Vijay Kumar said, "We're giving three-tier protection, all security arrangements have been done. Bharat Jodo Yatra is going on smoothly".

The ADGP added that traffic has also been diverted and there won't be any problem. "No security lapses happened yesterday, so many people did foot march," he maintained.

Restoration of statehood, conduct of elections utmost need in J&K: Jairam Ramesh

Member of Parliament and General Secretary Incharge Communication, AICC, Jairam Ramesh on Saturday said that restoration of full statehood and conduct of Assembly elections is the utmost need in Jammu and Kashmir.

“The Bharat Jodo Yatra is not about the alliance between the political parties. It has nothing to do with the elections and other big issues," Ramesh said while addressing a press conference in Srinagar.

Providing details about the Yatra, he said it will cover 4080 kilometers in 136 days and will end on January 30. "From Tamil Nadu to J&K, the Yatra has gone through 75 districts so far. Out of 136 days, Yatris walked 116 days so far," he said.

He also expressed satisfaction over elaborate security arrangements and stated that after yesterday’s incident at Qazigund, there were better security arrangements in place today.

Political parties commanded by BJP didn't join Bharat Jodo Yatra: JKPCC chief

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief, Vikar Rasool Wani on Saturday alleged that many political parties bossed and commanded by the ruling BJP party didn't join Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra in J&K.

"Few political parties are being controlled by the ruling party, which is why they didn't participate in the ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra in J&K," JKPCC chief Vikar Rasool Wani said while replying to a query during a press conference in Srinagar.

He said several political parties including NC, PDP, CPI(M), BSP, JDU, Shiv Sena, and others expressed their consent and joined the Yatra, however, there were few which are being controlled by the ruling regime and they didn't join the Yatra.

The JKPCC chief said since the Yatra entered the Kashmir Valley, thousands of people came onto roads and walked shoulder to shoulder with their leader Rahul Gandhi. He said even the government was not expecting such a massive crowd at the rally.

On security arrangements, he expressed satisfaction over elaborate security arrangements by authorities and stated that preventive measures were in place that put impediments to hassle-free entry of people into the Yatra.

He also said a large number of youth participated in the Yatra. "From Tamil Nadu to J&K, people from all walks of life showed their interest, especially youth, despite weather vagaries," he said.

ANANTNAG — Congress leader and Member Parliament Rahul Gandhi on Friday accused the Jammu and Kashmir administration of a big security lapse at Jawahar Tunnel, stating that police were missing to control the crowd that had come to his reception.

“When we crossed from Navyug Tunnel at Qazigund, there was a huge crowd for my reception. But there was not a single policeman to manage or control the crowd. My security guards advised me not to go ahead,” Rahul said while addressing a press conference at Khanabal, Anantnag, as per the news agency KNO. “It is very difficult for me to go against what my security guards advise me.”

He said that he was hopeful that security arrangements would be elaborate for his future programs that include his culmination rally at Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) office in Srinagar where he is supposed to unfurl the tricolour on January 30 and address a mega rally at Indoor Stadium Srinagar.

He said that the Bharat Jodo Yatra will continue and will conclude in Srinagar as per schedule.

Speaking on the occasion, senior Congress leader Jai Ram Ramesh said that Rahul was supposed to walk 16 km today but he could walk only 4 km due to a breach of security. He said that the administration must ensure proper security for the Bharat Jodo Yatra in the days ahead, especially when it reaches Srinagar.

He said due to the wrong policies of BJP and RSS, India as a nation is falling apart and the Yatra is an effort to bring the folks together. Ramesh said that BJY has nothing to do with electoral politics as of now. “We keep on stating that there are two ways: one that of BJP and RSS and another that of Congress which is the Gandhian way."

Meanwhile, several Congress leaders have also alleged security lapses in Banihal and Qazigund during Bharat Jodo Yatra on Friday.

"J&K UT administration failed to provide security to Bharat Jodo Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi. Security lapses indicate an unfair and unprepared attitude of UT administration," tweeted Rajani Patil, Congress in-charge of J&K and Ladakh.

"The sudden withdrawal of security personnel from the D-area has caused a serious security breach at the Bharat Jodo Yatra at Banihal, Kashmir. Who ordered this? The authorities responsible must answer for this lapse and take appropriate steps to prevent such incidents in future," tweeted another Congress leader K C Venugopal.

"J&K UT administration failed to provide security to Bharat Jodo Yatra led by Shri Rahul Gandhi. Security lapses indicate unfair and unprepared attitude of UT administration," J&K Congress tweeted.

Notably, the Yatra resumed after two days from Banihal, the hometown of the JKPCC president where hundreds of people were present to welcome Congress leaders. He was joined by former CM of J&K and NC Vice Omar Abdullah in Banihal.

Omar while reacting to the security lapse said that he witnessed the outer layer of security vanished suddenly.

"I’m witness to this. The outer ring of the cordon which was maintained by J&K Police simply vanished within minutes of Rahul Gandhi starting to walk. We had just crossed into Kashmir from Jammu and were looking forward to the 11 km walk but unfortunately, it had to be cancelled,” he tweeted.

Rahul was welcomed by several party leaders including former JKPCC president G A Mir at the entrance of the tunnel from Qazigund side along with hundreds of workers. He was joined by PDP leaders and workers led by PDP spokesperson Suhail Bhukhari as well.

J&K Police denies security lapse

Jammu and Kashmir Police said there was no security lapse at all in the Bharat Jodo Yatra.

In a statement issued on Friday, a police spokesman said the police were not consulted before taking any decision on discontinuing the Yatra after conducting a 1 km Yatra by the organizers. Police also said only authorized persons as identified by organizers and frisked crowd was allowed inside towards the route of the Yatra.

“Organisers and managers of Bharat Jodo Yatra did not intimate about large gathering from Banihal joining the Yatra, which thronged near the starting point,” it said. It further said full security arrangements were in place including 15 Coys of CAPFs and 10 Coys of JKP, comprising ROPs and QRTs, route domination, lateral deployment, and security forces were deployed for high-ridge and other deployments.

“J&K Police was not consulted before taking any decision on discontinuation of Yatra after conducting 1 km Yatra by organizers. The rest of the Yatra continued peacefully. There was no security lapse at all. We will provide fool-proof security,” the police said.

Bharat Jodo Yatra to resume from Chersoo Awantipora

The Bharat Jodo Yatra is set to resume from Chersoo Awantipora in south Kashmir's Pulwama district and conclude at Pantha chowk tomorrow (Saturday).

JKPCC President Waqar Rasool, while talking to reporters at Anantnag, said that on Saturday, Yatra will resume from Nimbal Chersoo near the Petrol Pump.

He said that tomorrow, a maximum number of womenfolk will join the Yatra and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti will also join the march. “Our leader Priyanka Gandhi is also expected to join the Yatra tomorrow from Awantipora to Pantha chowk,” he said.

He said that near Birla School Pampore, there will be a tea break and a night halt will be at Pantha Chowk truck yard from where Yatra will resume the next day. The Yatra will resume from Pantha Chowk on January 29 and will end at Nehru Park Srinagar.

Other leaders including former JKPCC President G A Mir, on the occasion, condemned the security lapse in Qazigund area. They said that despite assurances from government authorities over the last 20 days that they will facilitate everything, they changed everything and it was very disastrous in the last 24 hours.

“We have already lost Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi and couldn't take risks and had to save our leader before everything and we are highly condemning the security lapse,” they said.

They added that till the last stage, Rahul wanted to continue his Yatra at Qazigund but when his security recommended against foot March, he decided to leave the spot.

JAMMU — Congress leader Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra reached Ramban, the last district of Jammu on the National Highway, after covering 120 kilometers. The Yatra will resume from Bathi, Maitraand and stay in Banihal for a night while march for Kashmir will begin after Republic Day, where it is scheduled to culminate on January 30.

Sources, as per the news agency KNO, said the Yatra will resume from Ramban as per the scheduled 8:00 AM and stop at Forest Check Post near Hotel Usman.

It will resume from Kharpora, Banihal and cover Gund Adalkoot-Banihal Market-Transit Camp-T Chowk-Railway station, they said. "The Yatra will make a night halt at Lamber Truck yard Banihal where corner meetings with delegates are also scheduled," they said.

Earlier, the scheduled foot march started from Nagrota, Jammu. The foot march continued for a few kilometers but after advice from security forces, Rahul Gandhi boarded the car and reached the venue where a few delegations including the people of Ladakh apprised him of their grievances.

A delegation from Uttarakhand also highlighted the plights of the sinking Joshimath during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. A delegation from the hill state Uttrakhand joined Rahul Gandhi on the Jammu—Srinagar Highway near Udhampur and sought his intervention to save the hills town from sinking further.

Led by former Chief Minister Harish Rawat, the delegation raised placards “Save Joshimath—Save Uttrakhand” and participated in the foot march with the former Congress president, who also picked up one of the placards.

The team urged Gandhi to raise their voice in Parliament and other forums as the historical mountain town was fast sinking and might vanish soon.

Dalit activist Jignesh Mevani, Bollywood actress Urmila Matondkar, former Congress Chief Minister Charanjit Channi and Member Parliament Ravneet Singh were also among the attendees along with several social activists of Jammu and Kashmir.

JAMMU — Congress leader and Member Parliament Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said that Bharat Jodo Yatra has largely succeeded to fight against the narrative of hatred spread across the country and bring the folks together yet again.

“Let me tell you that we have been able to bring the people across the country together yet again through Bharat Jodo Yatra. There were a lot of lessons for us in the Yatra and we have learned a lot after meeting people of various shades during our journey,” Rahul said while addressing a press conference in Jammu, as per news agency KNO.

He said that there is no scope for hatred in the country as Congress believes in spreading the message of love. “Our endeavour is to open the shops of love across J&K that has been made a scapegoat of politics,” Rahul said, adding, “Through Bharat Jodo Yatra, we have largely been able to fight the disastrous narrative of hatred spread by the BJP in the country.”

He said that the primary focus of Congress is to get Statehood and Assembly restored in J&K. Asked if Bharat Jodo Yatra was apolitical, why was he continuously targeting BJP, Rahul responded, saying that since Congress is the grand old political party, there will surely be a bit of politics in his speeches during the Yatra.

“When Kashmiri Pandits, farmers and unemployed youth would meet me during the Yatra and hope that I will definitely raise their issues, there would obviously be a problem for me if I don’t talk about them,” the Congress leader said.

He said there was not even a tinge of hatred for anybody including PM Narendra Modi. “I am not afraid of anybody so why should I have hatred for anyone,” he said.

He said J&K youth are suffering from depression and discomfort. “We are here to listen to them and understand their issues,” he said, adding that media too has been suppressed to an extent as if Yatra is not happening at all.

To a query about Lal Singh, Rahul said that Singh supported Yatra and that Congress appreciates that. “As far as Ghulam Nabi Azad is concerned, 90 percent of his supporters and party men were on our stage. I would like to tender my apology if we have hurt Azad or Lal Singh,” Rahul said.

On reports that crores are being spent for his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul said that to tarnish his image, BJP and RSS spent thousands of crores and yet didn’t succeed. “I want to tell BJP that money can’t burry the truth which has a nasty habit of come out. BJP has started to understand this reality gradually,” he said.

It is pertinent to mention here that Rahul-led Bharat Jodo Yatra will enter Srinagar on January 30.

SAMBA — A Kashmiri migrant Pandit delegation met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday during his Bharat Jodo Yatra in Samba district and briefed him about their various issues including "targeted killings" of the community members and the resultant protest by those employed under a prime minister's package.

Social activist Amit Koul, who was part of the delegation, said they have invited Mr. Gandhi to their Jagti township along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and that he is likely to visit the community on his way to Kashmir.

"We had a very good interaction with Mr. Gandhi and we briefed him about the issues of the community, especially the prime minister's package employees who were provided jobs by the previous UPA government led by Manmohan Singh. They are on protest over the past six months in Jammu and their salaries have been withheld," Ms. Koul said, as per the news agency PTI.

Nearly 4,000 Kashmiri migrant Pandits are working in different departments in the valley after their selection under the prime minister's employment package announced in 2008. The package has two major components -- 6,000 jobs for the youth from the community and building as many accommodation units for the recruited employees.

However, many of the employees fled to Jammu after one of their colleagues, Rahul Bhat, was shot dead inside his office in Budgam district on May 12 last year in what was described as a case of targeted killing. They are on a strike demanding their relocation out of the Valley.

"We also raised other issues of the community including the need for enhancement of relief. We requested him to visit our township Jagti or send a delegation but he assured us that he will visit Jagti himself and raise their issues within and outside Parliament," Ms. Koul said.

Another member, Jitendra Kachroo, said he has come all the way from Uttar Pradesh, where he has settled after migrating from Kashmir, to meet Mr. Gandhi with other members of the delegation.

"He (Gandhi) is a very nice human being and a very simple person. He patiently heard our issues and it was heartwarming that he had time to listen to us," Mr. Kachroo said, adding that they were initially supposed to meet him as a 13-member delegation but several more joined them and "we raised issues which the community is facing".

Charging the BJP with using the community to further its political agenda, Mr. Kachroo said, "They do not really mean to solve the problems of the Kashmiri Pandits because for them it is a political agenda for them to spread hate on the basis of religion. "We used to live together in Kashmir -- both Muslims and Hindus -- as we share culture, dressing, and even surnames. There was never such a type of atmosphere, and we all were living together," he said.

'Lieutenant Governor owes an apology to Kashmiri Pandits'

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha should apologize to Kashmiri Pandits for telling them that "they should not be begging", Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said, following the meeting with members of the community in Jammu during his 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'.

"When a delegation of Pandits met Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, he told them that 'they should not beg'. Lieutenant Governor ji, Pandits are not begging, they are asking for their rights. Lt Governor owes an apology to the Pandits," Mr. Gandhi told a gathering at the end of the day's Yatra at Satwari in Jammu.

Rahul Gandhi also raised the issue of restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood, terming it "the biggest issue". The Congress leader said that "non-locals are running Jammu and Kashmir and gobbling up businesses in the region".

"The biggest issue is the restoration of statehood, and Congress will do everything for it. Jammu and Kashmir was run by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Today, it is being run by outsiders," he said.

Mr. Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, which began in September from the southern tip of the country in Kanyakumari and has travelled around 3,500 km, is set to conclude with a mega rally in Srinagar, expected to be attended by leaders from nearly two dozen national parties.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir’s security grid has been put on a high alert in the wake of the upcoming Republic Day and the ensuing Bharat Jodo Yatra (BJY) while as frisking has been intensified in Srinagar, Jammu highways, and sensitive areas of the Union Territory.

A senior police official, as per the news agency KNO, said that for the Republic Day, the security grid has been tightened and forces including police and CRPF have been deployed across the UT and all sorts of arrangements are in place to ensure the smooth passage of all official functions of January 26.

“This time around, we have a double challenge—one of Republic Day and another of BJY. Extra deployments have been made wherever necessary and all security agencies have been directed to maintain the highest level of alertness to foil the evil designs,” the official said, wishing not to be named.

BJY led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has already entered Jammu and is scheduled to reach Srinagar on January 30.

He said that all vigil is being maintained on the highways, in sensitive areas, and in all major cities and towns. “In Jammu city, deployment has been made for both Republic Day and the BJY while similar arrangements have been put in place in Srinagar district,” the officer said.

Eyewitnesses said that in Jammu city, police and paramilitary CRPF men have launched massive frisking operations while a close watch is being maintained on the suspects.

In Srinagar, police including the women police and CRPF have started intense frisking operations with commuters travelling on four-wheelers and two-wheelers being frisked thoroughly. “I was travelling from Pantha Chowk to Sonwar and was stopped by CRPF men. I was asked to show the ID card. The CRPF men also took my photograph and when I asked why he took the snap, he replied that he had to show it to his superior,” said Showkat Ahmed, a resident of Pantha Chowk.

Police sources said that as part of the heightened security grid for the peaceful conduct of Republic Day and BJY, all the CCTVs have been made functional in Srinagar and in all districts of Kashmir while the movement of vehicles and pedestrians is being closely watched from the respective control rooms of police.

A police source said that it was likely to go for aerial surveillance through drones in Srinagar and Jammu on January 26 to maintain aerial vigil. “We may use drones a day ahead of Republic Day,” he said, adding, “Night patrolling is also being conducted in several areas of Kashmir and Jammu.”

Many other commuters and auto-drivers said that they were stopped at multiple points from Dalgate to Lal Chowk and thoroughly frisked.

The main Republic Day function will be held at Jammu where LG Manoj Sinha will unfurl the tri-colour. In Srinagar, LG’s Advisor, Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar will take the salute of the parade and also hoist the national flag.

Pertinently, LG Sinha told reporters at Zewan, Srinagar on January 20 that elaborate security arrangements have been made to facilitate BJY. Earlier, DGP Dilbagh Singh had stated that all security measures were in place for the smooth conduct of all official functions on Republic Day eve across the UT.

JAMMU — A major controversy has erupted over the participation of former minister Lal Singh in Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra with a lawyer, who was at the forefront of a campaign to seek justice for eight-year-old Kathua child gang-raped and murdered in 2018, resigning from the Congress on Tuesday over allowing Singh to participate in the Yatra, which will enter Jammu & Kashmir this week.

In a series of tweets, as per the news agency KNO, Advocate Deepika Pushkar Nath announced her resignation from the party, saying Lal Singh defended the rapists of the girl and divided the entire Jammu & Kashmir to protect the rapists.

“In view of Ch. Lal Singh's proposal of joining @BharatJodo & @INCJammuKashmir allowing the same, I am left with no other option but to resign from @INCIndia. Lal Singh was responsible for sabotaging the Kathua rape case in 2018 by brazenly defending rapists,” Deepika said in a tweet.

Deepika, who was also spokesperson of the J&K unit of Congress, said Lal Singh divided the entire region of Jammu & Kashmir to protect the rapists and Bharat Jodo Yatra is ideologically opposed to the actions of the former minister. “Lal Singh divided the entire region of Jammu & Kashmir to protect the rapists and @BharatJodo is ideologically opposite. On ideological grounds, I cannot share the party platform with such a person,” she wrote.

Lal Singh along with Chandra Prakash Ganga was forced to resign from the Mehbooba Mufti-led council of ministers on April 13, 2018, over their participation in a rally in support of Kathua rapists. After his ouster from the cabinet, Singh had led a massive campaign to seek a CBI probe in Kathua rape and murder case, saying this was a conspiracy to defame the entire Dogra community.

J&K Police had then registered an FIR against the brother of Lal Singh for using abusive language against then-Chief Minster Mehbooba Mufti during a rally in Kathua.

In January 2018, an eight-year-old nomadic Muslim girl in Rasana village of Kathua was kidnapped and raped in captivity after having been kept sedated for four days before she was bludgeoned to death.

The resignation of Deepika Singh would put Congress in a tight spot and it would be interesting to watch whether the party would allow Singh to join the Yatra.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir Police chief, Dilbagh Singh on Tuesday said that there are no threat inputs to the upcoming Bharat Jodo Yatra and that all security measures have been taken to facilitate it when it reaches the UT.

“I chaired a security review and BJY was also discussed. There is no threat to the Yatra. All security measures will be taken to facilitate it at district and range level,” DGP told reporters in Srinagar on the sidelines of a function as per the news agency KNO.

Replying to a query, the DGP said police have got some vital clues with regard to the Rajouri attacks and that success will be achieved soon. The DGP said that police have got some vital clues during the investigation. “The area is close to the forest and after frequent militant sightings, four-five unsuccessful operations have been launched. As far as the investigation is concerned, we have got some solid clues and the arrests will be made soon. I hope that success will be achieved soon,” he said.

DGP also said that “the main character behind terrorism in J&K and other parts of the country from across the border is being exposed at the international level. Measures are being taken to tighten up the process against the involved people and notify them as terrorists. The profile of these persons is also being sent to the different organizations working against terrorism.”

Meanwhile, DGP chaired a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar in which senior officers of Kashmir Zone participated. A police spokesman said that the meeting reviewed the crime and security scenario of the Valley. He said that arrangements for the upcoming Republic Day were also discussed.

Addressing the officers, the DGP said that action against the terror ecosystem must be carried forward meticulously and in a coordinated manner. "Although J&K Police along with other forces has got successes across Jammu and Kashmir against the terrorists, stringent actions against the terror support system, narcotics and narco-terror modules should be continued with an aim to bring an end to it," the spokesman said, adding that the DGP stressed upon the jurisdictional officers to ensure direct supervision of UAPA, NDPS and other special reported heinous cases so that the investigation and disposal of all pending cases as well as of new cases are brought to a logical conclusion on priority.

Reviewing the arrangements for the upcoming Republic Day functions, the DGP directed for ensuring all required and necessary security arrangements are in place. “He directed for coordination and synergy among all the stakeholders. He directed the officers that while dealing with any situation, they should ensure that law-abiding people are not put to any inconvenience during their day-to-day activities. He also directed for stringent action against OGWs or anyone supporting terrorism, or narco-terror modules in the UT,” the spokesman said.

Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra plan in J&K

As Congress leader Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra is set to enter Jammu and Kashmir for its culmination after covering around 4000 kilometers distance, the foot march by the Parliamentarian has certainly become a talking point among the people.

As per the news agency KNO, Rahul Gandhi will spend around 11 days in Jammu and Kashmir and participate in various public meets, interactions besides visiting famous temples, shrines and iconic spots.

Member Parliament, Rajya Sabha and Incharge Jammu Kashmir Congress Committee, Rajni Patil informed that Rahul-led Bharat Jodo Yatra will be entering into Jammu and Kashmir on January 19, after a grand flag handover ceremony in Punjab’s Pathankot.

“After Haryana leg and Punjab leg, the Yatra will march into Jammu and Kashmir via Lakhanpur. And will be in the state for almost 11-12 days, followed by a grand function in Srinagar for its successful culmination, where all Congress chief ministers and senior leaders of Opposition are likely to participate,” MP Patil said.

She further said that, after entering J&K, Yatra will be welcomed at Maharaja Gulab Singh’s status at Lakhanpur and then march forward.

“The BJY is staying in containers and its first halt will be at Hatli Morh, Kathua. On January 20, it will resume at 7:00 in the morning from Hatli Morch and break at Channi, while the stay will be in Chadwal," she said, adding, “January 21 is a break day, while on January 22, it will further resume from Hiranagar and make a night halt at Duggar Havali, Samba.”

Patil further said that a grand rally is planned on January 23 at Satwari Jammu and a night halt will be at Shidra in the outskirts while on January 24, the Yatra will break for two times and a night halt is planned at Udhampur.

“Similarly, it will resume on January 15 and make its night halt in Ramban while itinerary in Kashmir hasn’t been announced fully and still updating,” she said and added that a grand culminating ceremony is planned at Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium Srinagar where a large number of people, chief minister of Congress-led states, likeminded Opposition leaders are likely to participate.

A Congress leader informed that the march is planned in such a way that it passes through iconic places and places of religious faiths, where Rahul is likely to visit. However, the party sources added that Rahul is unlikely to visit outer peripheries and border areas during his visit due to security issues.

As per sources, security concerns for the Yatra also mounted as it is set to enter Jammu and Kashmir, where encounters between 'terrorists' and security forces have often taken place, in the third week of this month.

According to party sources, Rahul is unlikely to visit the border belt and Vaishno Devi shrine. However, he will be visiting Raghunath Ji temple, Bawe Wali Mata Temple during his stay in Jammu.

The Congress has exhorted “like-minded” groups and individuals to join the march to keep the BJP at bay. Jammu and Kashmir is a crucial state for Congress as it reaches a very crucial time, with Assembly elections approaching in near future.

The J&K Legislative Assembly was suspended after the BJP fell out with Mehbooba Mufti’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in June 2018. But between 2014 – when the BJP-PDP alliance was struck – and 2018 – when they split – much of the political and demographic landscape in the Valley has shifted.

The Gupkar alliance of Kashmiri parties has developed cracks, with the National Conference announcing to go it alone, and the UT has undergone a delimitation exercise.

The Bharat Jodo Yatra’s stated goal is to “unite the country” but the Congress is seen to use this massive mass-contact programme to address its existential crisis triggered by the exits of top leaders (the latest being Ghulam Nabi Azad), dissent, infighting (Rajasthan is a case in point) and a string of poll defeats.

Launched on September 7, 2022, from Kanyakumari, the southern tip of the peninsula, to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, spanning 3,570 kilometers, which will come to its end on January 30.

PUNJAB — Congress MP from Jalandhar, Chaudhary Santokh Singh, died during Bharat Jodo Yatra on Saturday morning in Phillaur area of Punjab, officials said.

According to the reports of Srinagar-based news agency KDC, Singh was walking along with Rahul Gandhi in the Yatra when he suddenly felt unwell as his heartbeat increased.

The leader was taken to Phagwara’s Virk Hospital, where he was declared dead, the reports said, adding that Rahul Gandhi has left Bharat Jodo Yatra and reached the hospital after receiving the news.

A congress leader said that the Yatra has been suspended for the day.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Bharat Jodo Yatra commenced on September 7 last year from Kanyakumari and will culminate on January 30 in the summer capital Srinagar.

SRINAGAR — Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday invited 21 like-minded parties to join the closing ceremony of the Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra in Srinagar on January 30.

According to reports by news agency KNS, Kharge has invited 21 like-minded parties through a letter to join the concluding ceremony of the Yatra to be held in Srinagar on January 30 at 1:00 PM onwards.

He said the function is dedicated to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi who lost his life on this day in his tireless struggle against the ideology of hatred and violence.

“At this event, we will commit ourselves to fighting hatred and violence to spread the message of truth, compassion, and non-violence and to defend the Constitutional values of liberty, equality, fraternity, and justice for all,” he said.

He also that the Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi from Kanyakumari to Kashmir had now completed over 3,300 km.

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) President and Member of the Parliament Dr. Farooq Abdullah joined the Bharat Jodo Yatra near Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh.

The NC party president joined the second leg of the Yatra which resumed today. Led by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, the Yatra has covered 3122 kilometers so far from Kanyakumari to New Delhi.

The NC patron appreciated the Congress MP for promoting the cause of national integrity and strengthening democratic values through the Yatra. “The Yarta celebrates the country's incredible diversity, pluralism, and democratic values which were bequeathed to us by the founding fathers of our nation. The Yatra has brought forth the real issues concerning the people and blunted the weapons of communalism by sharpening the message of unity in diversity," he said.

He added, "I pass on my best wishes to Rahul Ji and his associates who are on the march to spread awareness among fellow countrymen on issues that should concern us all.”

SRINAGAR — Janata Dal (United) part of Jammu and Kashmir has extended support to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra which is scheduled to pass through Jammu and Kashmir.

President, JDU for Jammu and Kashmir GM Shaheen told the news agency KNT that it is the need of the hour to save the country from divisive forces hell-bent to divide society into the lines of religion and creed.

“Secular parties should get united to stop the communal politics being played by the BJP. BJP has ruined this country. For this party, power comes first and country second,” he said.

Shaheen said that ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ started by Rahul Gandhi is a ray of hope for those Indians who have lost faith in institutions. “This Yatra has spread love and amity and we must support it,” he said.