PUNE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s August 22 ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Pune has received police permission with 30 conditions, including a ban on “objectionable” images, pictures and banners and a direction to ensure that no religious sentiments are hurt.The event, focused on issues concerning female students, including education, women’s safety, equality, competitive exams and career opportunities, will be held from 4.30 pm to 9.30 pm at the SSPMS College ground near RTO Chowk. Police expect a gathering of 8,000 to 10,000 people.The permission order, issued on Wednesday, makes organisers responsible for maintaining law and order at the venue and ensuring that no material or activity hurts religious sentiments.Maharashtra Congress vice-president Mohan Joshi said the party had received permission and would comply with all conditions imposed by the police.Among the other conditions, organisers have been asked to make adequate security arrangements, provide separate facilities for men and women, ensure sufficient entry and exit gates, drinking water, toilets, fire-safety equipment and parking.Private security guards, including women personnel, and volunteers, particularly women, have to be deployed. CCTV cameras covering the entire venue must remain operational during the day and night.The organisers have also been directed to follow Supreme Court guidelines on permissible noise levels and comply with the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.Drones have been prohibited at the venue, while emergency access for police, medical and fire services must be kept clear.The permission is also subject to a no-objection certificate from the traffic department. Police said it could be cancelled if any illegal activity affecting law and order is detected. In case of a dispute over the venue, the permission would be cancelled immediately.The event comes amid prohibitory orders imposed across Pune city from Tuesday until August 31, restricting public assemblies and the burning of effigies. Police cited security concerns related to upcoming festivals and protests for the restrictions.Congress leader Pawan Khera, however, alleged that the prohibitory order was aimed at disrupting Gandhi’s programme.Gandhi launched the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign in Kota on June 17 to highlight concerns in the education sector and issues faced by students. He subsequently addressed events in Dehradun on July 17 and Prayagraj on August 8.At the Pune event, Gandhi is expected to interact with female students on issues including women’s safety, examination paper leaks and employment opportunities.Senior Maharashtra Congress leaders have been in Pune ahead of the programme, holding musical performances, bike rallies and campus interactions to mobilise students. Former minister Satej Patil said the party was expecting thousands of female students at the event.
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