Rahul Gandhi To Discuss Global Student Movements And Geopolitics At US Universities

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will participate in two major discussions at Columbia University and the University of Chicago during his upcoming visit to the United States next week. The interactions will focus on the global rise of student movements, democracy, international relations and emerging geopolitical developments, Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda said on Wednesday.

Speaking to PTI, Pitroda said Gandhi's first engagement would be a fireside chat at Columbia University on November 17, focusing on the growing influence of student movements worldwide. The discussion will examine how these movements are shaping democratic participation and their demands concerning education, employment, the economy and the environment. It will also explore the implications of global student movements for India and their influence on democratic institutions.

Gandhi's second interaction is scheduled for November 18 at the University of Chicago, where he will participate in a conversation with renowned geopolitics professor Dr Robert Pape. The discussion will focus on international relations, global affairs, developments in the Middle East and the Iran war.

Defending Gandhi's overseas visits amid criticism from the BJP that he raises domestic issues on foreign soil, Pitroda described the allegations as "bogus". He argued that in an interconnected world, local developments have global implications and information cannot be restricted by national borders. He maintained that discussing facts internationally does not amount to insulting India.

Pitroda also described Gandhi as a global leader, stressing that India's position as the world's largest democracy makes it important for the country to remain connected with the international community.

Meanwhile, Pitroda spoke about the upcoming Bharat Summit, scheduled to be held in Hyderabad on November 13 and 14. The conference is expected to bring together around 1,000 delegates from 70 countries, including political leaders, policymakers, academics, business representatives and civil society members.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are expected to participate. Discussions will cover the emerging global order, India's strategic response, cooperative federalism, electoral integrity, artificial intelligence, youth participation and education reforms. The summit will also explore the formation of a new think tank called 'Our World'.