Rahul Gandhi’s Pune rally exclusively for girls on Aug 22

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has announced that his upcoming 'chhatron ki goonj' rally in Pune on August 22 will be open only to girls. The event is part of a series targeting the youth.

In a social media video, Gandhi said: 'The courage with which India's youngsters have stood firm against PM Modi's violent regime, demanding accountability, is commendable.' He praised girls who 'faced the BJP goons' misbehaviour, verbal abuse and violence', and said the rally would let girls speak and the country listen.

The Times of India reports the announcement came alongside a video featuring Gandhi's interaction with Jantar Mantar protesters. The rally aims to amplify young women's voices ahead of elections.