Rahul Gandhi to Fund Education of 22 Children Orphaned in Poonch Shelling

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will personally fund the education of 22 children in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, who lost one or both parents during the recent Pakistani shelling that followed Operation Sindoor. Congress officials confirmed that the first installment of financial support will be disbursed this week.

Ground Visit and Immediate Directive

During his visit on May 24, Rahul Gandhi met families devastated by the attacks and spoke directly with children left without guardians. Moved by their stories, he promised to support them. Immediately after returning, he instructed local Congress workers to identify all orphaned children. They compiled a list and verified it with local officials and government data to ensure accuracy.

Details of the Cross-Border Attack

Between May 7 and 10, Pakistani forces launched heavy shelling in the Poonch and Rajouri regions. The attacks came in retaliation to India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps near the Line of Control following the Pahalgam terror strike that killed 26 civilians. The shelling killed 13 civilians and injured 75 others in Poonch alone, while destroying multiple homes and schools.

Educational Support Until Graduation

Rahul Gandhi has committed to funding the children’s education until they complete their graduation. J&K Congress spokesperson Ravindra Sharma confirmed that the support will come directly from Gandhi’s personal funds. Youth Congress members will travel to Poonch in the coming days to hand over the first installment directly to the families, ensuring transparency and timely assistance.

Congress Party Clarifies Nature of Support

Congress leaders emphasized that the initiative is not a symbolic gesture but a long-term commitment. “Rahul has pledged to stand by these children until they complete their education,” said Sharma. “This is about restoring hope and stability in their lives.”

By responding quickly and personally, Gandhi aims to bring both national attention and sustained support to the families who suffered the most after the cross-border conflict.