Rahul Gandhi’s Landmark Ladakh Visit: Engages with Army Veterans, Addresses Territory Concerns

New Delhi, August 22, 2023: Rahul Gandhi, Congress Member of Parliament, embarked on his maiden visit to Ladakh since the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. During his stay, Gandhi connected with Army veterans in the region, standing alongside them with the national flag in the bustling Main Market of Leh.

Amid throngs of eager onlookers, the Wayanad MP waved and exchanged greetings, marking his notable presence in the picturesque region. This visit holds particular significance as it’s his inaugural journey to Ladakh since its bifurcation.

Addressing concerns of land intrusion, Gandhi engaged with Army veterans, highlighting his stance on the issue. Just days prior, he had challenged the central government’s claim that China’s People’s Liberation Army had not encroached upon any Indian land. He asserted, “The locals here are concerned about China taking our land. They have said that the Chinese troops took away their grazing land. However, the PM says not an inch of land was taken away. This is not true, you can ask anyone here.”

Rahul Gandhi also paid homage to his father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, on his 79th birth anniversary, choosing the serene banks of Pangong Lake as the backdrop for his tribute.

Adding an adventurous twist to his visit, Gandhi embarked on a bike ride to the famous Pangong Lake, symbolizing his commitment to engage with the region and its people on various levels.

The Congress leader’s Ladakh tour comes ahead of the Kargil council polls on September 10, where the Congress and National Conference have formed an alliance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His journey to Ladakh has extended beyond his initial plans, reflecting his keenness to connect with the region’s diverse communities.

While Rahul Gandhi has previously visited Jammu and Srinagar, this Ladakh sojourn underscores his determination to grasp the pulse of the Union Territory and interact with its people, from Army veterans to local residents.