Almora: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) District General Secretary Darshan Rawat has raised concerns over the proposed political rally of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Almora, stating that the event is being planned at a time when annual university examinations are underway at Soban Singh Jeena (SSJ) Campus.
In a press statement, Rawat said that thousands of students are currently appearing for their examinations and are focused on securing their academic future. He emphasized that examination periods require a peaceful and well-managed environment to ensure that students can attend their exams without unnecessary stress or disruption.
According to Rawat, the proposed rally at Simkani Ground has generated concerns because prohibitory orders under Section 144 are reportedly in force in the district to maintain law and order. He argued that organizing a large political gathering under such circumstances raises important questions regarding administrative priorities and public convenience.
The BJP leader stated that while every political party has the democratic right to organize public meetings and communicate with the electorate, such rights should be exercised responsibly. He questioned whether political objectives should take precedence over the educational interests of thousands of students appearing in examinations.
Rawat further alleged that adequate consideration was not given to the convenience of students and the academic environment while deciding the date and venue of the rally. He said that a major political event could lead to increased traffic congestion, crowd movement and additional pressure on security arrangements.
He expressed concern that students travelling from rural and remote areas could face difficulties in reaching examination centres on time if traffic restrictions or congestion occur due to the gathering. Parents and guardians, he added, may also face anxiety regarding transportation and safety arrangements.
The BJP leader maintained that his party is not opposed to democratic activities but believes that political organizations should take social and educational responsibilities into account while planning large-scale events. According to him, special sensitivity is required when examinations are being conducted.
Rawat urged the district administration to ensure that the interests of examinees remain the top priority. He called for effective traffic management, adequate security deployment and proper arrangements to guarantee uninterrupted access to examination centres.
He emphasized that students represent the future of society and that all stakeholders, including political parties and government authorities, should work together to ensure that educational activities are not adversely affected by public events.
The statement concluded with an appeal for comprehensive administrative planning so that examinations, public convenience and law-and-order arrangements can be maintained smoothly during the proposed political programme.
