Srinagar, Mar 09: Workers of the Indian National Congress in Srinagar on Monday joined a nationwide protest against the proposed India–US trade deal, responding to a call by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.
According to a party statement, Congress workers from Srinagar and adjoining areas assembled at the party headquarters in the city to express opposition to the trade agreement, which they alleged could compromise India’s economic interests and national security. The demonstration was also intended to highlight their concerns at the beginning of the ongoing Parliament session.
Hundreds of party workers, including district functionaries, gathered at the Srinagar headquarters despite restrictions, which party leaders claimed were selectively imposed to obstruct their movement. The protesters raised slogans and reiterated their support for the party leadership while opposing the trade deal.
Several Congress leaders from different districts of the Kashmir Valley—including Baramulla, Kupwara, Shopian, Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Ganderbal—were reportedly detained or prevented from leading demonstrations in their respective areas.
The protesters who managed to reach the party office were later surrounded by heavy contingents of police and CRPF personnel. Authorities did not allow the protesters to carry out their planned march to the Divisional Commissioner’s office, despite repeated appeals. The workers later staged a sit-in protest at the venue.
The protest in Srinagar was led by District Coordinator Nizamuddin Bhat, District President Dr Audil Farooq Mir, Youth President Yasir Mandoo, party leader Waleed Karra and several other senior leaders and block presidents.
