In his inaugural visit to his Lok Sabha constituency after assuming the role of Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi engaged in a series of activities on Tuesday. He began by offering prayers at a Hanuman temple and proceeded to visit Raebareli AIIMS. Additionally, he met with the family of a soldier posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra, the country’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award, who lost his life in Siachen.
After landing at Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport, Gandhi traveled by road to Raebareli, approximately 80 km away. En route, he paused at the Churuva temple near Bachhrawan to offer prayers to Lord Hanuman.
“The Congress party stated that Rahul Gandhi worshipped at the Churuva Hanuman temple, praying for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the country.”
Gandhi’s temple visit occurred amidst criticism from the BJP following his recent parliamentary speech, where he criticized the ruling party for not adhering to essential Hinduism principles. Ahead of his arrival, posters and banners questioning his “religion” and views on his Hindu voters appeared across Raebareli.
Upon reaching the Bhuvemau guesthouse in Raebareli, Gandhi met with the parents of Captain Anshuman Singh.
“This four-year scheme is not beneficial. We discussed this issue with Rahul Gandhi as well… After four years of military service, young people won’t be able to do much, mentally or physically. It will disrupt their studies, and they won’t receive pensions or access to canteen facilities. I urge the government not to divide the Army into two categories. There should be equality,” remarked the late captain’s mother.
“I am proud of my son. While nothing can replace him, today people respect us because of him. It gives us strength and the courage to advocate for other parents like us, left only with memories,” she added.
Later in the day, Rahul visited the martyrs’ memorial in Lalganj, where he laid a wreath and planted a sapling. He also visited AIIMS-Raebareli, engaging with patients and interacting with students, faculty, and administration.
Students highlighted the deteriorating condition of roads in front of the institute over the past three years. Dr. Arvind Rajwani, Executive Director of AIIMS-Raebareli, shared that Rahul Gandhi discussed the institute’s operations, current bed capacity, and expansion plans.
“At present, the institute has 610 beds, with plans to increase to 950. We provided him with updates on these and other matters,” Rajwani added.
On his return journey to Lucknow, Rahul Gandhi encountered protesting farmers in Mohanlalganj. They alleged their land was being illegally seized, leading to forced displacement.
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