Rahul Gandhi engages with Kashmiri women; opens up on his marriage
By : DC Web Desk
Update: 2024-08-27 06:14 GMT
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently interacted with a group of Kashmiri women in Srinagar, where discussions ranged from education and employment to marriage and politics. The exchange, captured in a series of videos shared by Gandhi on social media, offered a glimpse into the concerns and aspirations of the young women.
In one of the videos, Gandhi is seen addressing a question about marriage, a topic that has often sparked public interest. When asked about the pressure to get married, the Congress leader, smiling, replied, "I have outlasted that pressure for 20-30 years." When pressed further on his plans, he candidly responded, "I don’t plan it, but if it happens…"
The conversation touched on the broader implications of social pressures and changing societal norms. Some of the women expressed apprehension about marriage, citing rising divorce rates in Kashmir. Others highlighted their focus on education and career aspirations, with one student mentioning her reluctance to grow up too quickly.
The discussion also covered pressing issues such as women’s safety and the impact of recent incidents of harassment. Gandhi listened to the students' concerns about systemic issues affecting women and emphasized the need for addressing these challenges to ensure dignity and security.
In addition to personal topics, the conversation shifted to politics, particularly the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir elections. Gandhi reiterated his commitment to restoring statehood in the region and ensuring fair representation for its people. He also underscored the importance of press freedom and the role of media in safeguarding democracy.
Rahul Gandhi’s visit comes ahead of the J&K assembly elections, set to take place in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with results to be announced on October 4. The Congress leader’s engagement with the youth, especially women, reflects his focus on understanding and addressing their concerns in the region.
In one of the videos, Gandhi is seen addressing a question about marriage, a topic that has often sparked public interest. When asked about the pressure to get married, the Congress leader, smiling, replied, "I have outlasted that pressure for 20-30 years." When pressed further on his plans, he candidly responded, "I don’t plan it, but if it happens…"
The conversation touched on the broader implications of social pressures and changing societal norms. Some of the women expressed apprehension about marriage, citing rising divorce rates in Kashmir. Others highlighted their focus on education and career aspirations, with one student mentioning her reluctance to grow up too quickly.
The discussion also covered pressing issues such as women’s safety and the impact of recent incidents of harassment. Gandhi listened to the students' concerns about systemic issues affecting women and emphasized the need for addressing these challenges to ensure dignity and security.
In addition to personal topics, the conversation shifted to politics, particularly the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir elections. Gandhi reiterated his commitment to restoring statehood in the region and ensuring fair representation for its people. He also underscored the importance of press freedom and the role of media in safeguarding democracy.
Rahul Gandhi’s visit comes ahead of the J&K assembly elections, set to take place in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, with results to be announced on October 4. The Congress leader’s engagement with the youth, especially women, reflects his focus on understanding and addressing their concerns in the region.