Tamil Nadu Congress functionaries have begun collecting funds in the name of “financial contributions” to meet expenses for Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi’s upcoming visit to the state, according to party sources.
Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to arrive in Tamil Nadu on October 10 and take part in a programme titled “Voice of Students” at Island Grounds in Chennai. The outreach is part of his interactions with students on issues such as education, employment and question paper leaks.
State Congress chief Manickam Tagore is said to be planning to mobilise around one lakh participants, including students, parents and teachers, from across Tamil Nadu. Party office-bearers are involved in coordination with colleges, mobilisation efforts and publicity for the event.
However, some Congress members allege that certain organisers have been sending messages citing large donations by MPs, including women MPs, and urging others to contribute as well. They question why money is being sought from state-level functionaries who may not have the financial capacity.
Party sources said the event’s expenditure is estimated at around Rs 60 lakh, with plans for publicity banners across districts. Critics within the party claim the collection drive appears to be higher than the projected cost and have raised concerns over whether proper accounts will be presented.
