Bypoll Code of Conduct Postpones Rahul Gandhi's Student Event, State Leaders Relieved

The Model Code of Conduct enforced for the upcoming Bankipur bypoll on July 30 has led to the postponement of Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi's student outreach programme in Patna, providing relief to some state Congress leaders who were concerned about attendance numbers.

Gandhi was scheduled to visit the Bihar capital on July 15 to address students as part of the 'Chhatron ki Goonj' campaign. However, the state unit, according to sources, was struggling to secure enough student participation for the event. While state Congress leaders expressed confidence in eventually managing the required numbers, sources indicated that the task was becoming increasingly difficult as Gandhi's office requested detailed information about all attending students.

The postponement due to the Model Code of Conduct has temporarily alleviated the pressure on state leaders to organise a sizable audience for the event. The Bankipur bypoll is a key electoral contest, and the enforcement of the code prohibits any activities that could be perceived as campaigning or influencing voters.