Kharge writes to Shah, seeks his intervention in ensuring adequate security for Bharat Jodo Yatra

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s “security lapse” on January 27 and requested his personal participation in ensuring appropriate protection for the Bharat Jodo Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir.

Kharge’s letter comes after the Congress’ footmarch was called off for the day, with the party stating that it was done on the recommendation of those in charge of Rahul Gandhi’s security.

“We are expecting a huge gathering to join the yatra over the next two days and also the function that will be held on January 30 at Srinagar. Many senior Congress leaders and leaders of other important political parties are attending the culmination functions to be held on January 30,” said Kharge in his letter.

“I shall be grateful if you could personally intervene in this matter and advise the concerned officials to provide adequate security till the culmination of the yatra and the function on the 30th January at Srinagar,” the Congress president said in his letter to Shah.

He also praised the Jammu and Kashmir Police for stating that they will continue to ensure complete protection until the end of the yatra.

During a press conference on Friday, Rahul Gandhi stated that the security arrangements had “completely collapsed” during the Yatra on Friday morning.

“This morning during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, unfortunately, the police arrangement completely collapsed and the police who were supposed to manage the crowd were nowhere to be seen. My security people were very uncomfortable with me walking further on the yatra so I had to cancel my walk. Other yatris did the walk,” said Rahul Gandhi while addressing a press conference.

Speaking further on security considerations, Gandhi stated, “I think it is important the police manages the crowd so that we can do the yatra. It’s very difficult for me to go against what my security people are recommending.”