Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ in Pune Gets Police Permission, 30 Conditions Imposed
Pune, 20th August 2026: Police have granted permission for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Pune on August 22, subject to 30 conditions, including a ban on objectionable banners and images and a direction to ensure that no religious sentiments are hurt.
The programme, aimed at female students, will be held from 4.30 pm to 9.30 pm at the SSPMS College ground near RTO Chowk. Police estimate that 8,000-10,000 people may attend.
The organisers have been made responsible for maintaining law and order and preventing any activity that could trigger a disturbance. They have also been directed to ensure adequate entry and exit points, drinking water, toilets, fire-safety equipment and parking facilities.
Private security guards, including women personnel, and volunteers will have to be deployed. CCTV cameras covering the entire venue must remain operational during the event.
The organisers have also been directed to comply with permissible noise limits under Supreme Court guidelines and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Drone photography has been prohibited, while emergency access for police, medical and fire services must be maintained.
The permission is subject to a no-objection certificate from the traffic police and can be cancelled if any illegal activity affecting law and order is reported or if a dispute arises over the venue.
Maharashtra Congress vice-president Mohan Joshi said the organisers would comply with all 30 conditions.
The event comes amid prohibitory orders in Pune city from August 18 to 31, banning public assemblies and effigy burning as part of security arrangements for upcoming festivals and protests. Congress leader Pawan Khera has alleged that the restrictions were intended to disrupt Gandhi’s programme.
Gandhi launched the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign in Kota on June 17 to raise issues concerning students, including education, safety, equality, competitive examinations and career opportunities. Subsequent programmes were held in Dehradun and Prayagraj.
