Congress MP and leader of the opposition, Rahul Gandhi, made a notable visit to Srinagar on Wednesday, adding a touch of local flavor to his political tour by visiting an ice cream parlour in the bustling Lal Chowk area. This followed a dinner at a renowned local restaurant, reflecting a mix of political engagements and interactions with the local culture.
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VIDEO | Congress MP Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) visits an ice cream store in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk. pic.twitter.com/deHIpzXBWB
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 21, 2024
Dinner at a Local Favorite
Rahul Gandhi, accompanied by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and other senior party leaders, left their accommodation at Hotel Lalit, situated in the Gupkar area of Srinagar. Their destination was Hotel Ahdoos, a famous eatery known for its authentic Kashmiri ‘Wazwan,’ a traditional multi-course meal deeply rooted in Kashmiri culture.
A Stroll Through Lal Chowk
After their meal, Gandhi and his entourage took a leisurely walk to the nearby Pratap Park, just a short distance from the iconic Clock Tower. The group enjoyed ice cream at a popular local parlour, adding a casual and relatable element to their visit. This high-profile presence in Srinagar’s commercial heart surprised locals, as heavy security measures were quickly put in place to ensure their safety.
Political Agenda and Alliance Talks
Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir is part of a two-day tour aimed at assessing the Congress party’s preparations for the upcoming assembly elections in the Union Territory. During this trip, he is also exploring potential alliances with regional parties, particularly the National Conference (NC).
The Congress leader, along with Mallikarjun Kharge, is scheduled to attend key meetings related to the three-phased assembly elections, which are set to commence on September 18. These discussions are crucial as the Congress party strategizes its approach to the elections, with an eye on forming alliances that could strengthen its position in the region.