Everybody in the Kashmir University auditorium was excited, as I was, to interact with Rahul Gandhi and other business tycoons accompanying him on Friday.
Mr. Gandhi, an eminent business leader himself, felicitated the panel of guests on the dais. He seemed so courteous, filling glasses of water for his counterparts. I liked his attitude, because he behaved as a host rather than guest. The interactive session, though, began an hour later than it was scheduled.
Mr. Gandhi has kept his promise of being in communication with Kashmir for the long run, which he made during a 2011 visit. He said Friday he believes that the youth in J&K state are dynamic and they should explore their talents in different sectors. He also said he believes there should not be a trust deficit among people. He wants to build truthful relations and strong bonds with the youth of the state, he said.
Ratan Tata, A ditya Birla and other members of the panel also expressed their views. They shared excellent remarks from youths they interacted with, and said they believe in the past two and a half years many opportunities have proliferated in India. Mr. Gandhi said the reason the Kashmir youth lack opportunities is because of the instability and context of Kashmir.
Though, I fail to understand how we are supposed to trust people who in turn do not trust us.
Being a journalism student, I felt especially upset when I was not allowed to carry a simple pen with me to the interaction. I cannot reckon how a pen can create insecurity for these leaders.
I wanted to exchange my views and thoughts, as did many others, but there was a lack of freedom. The session seemed geared towards specific questions, not one about politics but those related only to business.
Apart from posing queries, the audience also shared some relevant suggestions. They included investments in the c orporate sector and software companies in the state.
Mr. Gandhi and other members paid heed to these suggestions.
When wrapping up, Mr. Gandhi again showed his courteous behavior by saying it was time to wrap up the session for Friday prayers.
The session lasted for an hour. I believe it would have been much better if the interaction lasted for a bit longer and was less biased towards business.
Shreen Hamdani is a 21-year-old journalism student at the Government College for Women in Srinagar.
