Rahul Gandhi to Sponsor Education of Children Orphaned by LoC Shelling in Poonch: A Gesture of Compassion Beyond Politics
In a deeply touching and humane gesture that transcends political boundaries, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has stepped forward to sponsor the education of 22 children from Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, who tragically lost one or both of their parents during intense Pakistani shelling and drone attacks earlier this year.
The cross-border violence, which erupted between May 7 and 10, following Operation Sindoor — India’s precision missile strikes on terror infrastructure in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack — resulted in 28 civilian deaths, of which 13 were from Poonch alone. Among the most heartbreaking casualties were school-going children who not only lost family but also their sense of safety and normalcy.
Amid the smoldering aftermath, Rahul Gandhi quietly visited the region, meeting grieving families and speaking with children who were left behind, their futures suddenly clouded with uncertainty. He offered more than words — he extended solidarity, empathy, and tangible support.
“Make Your Pain Your Strength,” Rahul Tells Grieving Children
During his visit to Christ Public School, where two young students — 12-year-old twins Urba Fatima and Zain Ali — were among the victims of the shelling, Rahul Gandhi sat down with the children, visibly moved by the grief that hung in the air.
“I feel very, very proud of you,” he told the children gently, crouching down to their level. “I know you miss your little friends. I’m very sorry about that. You may feel scared now, but trust me, things will get better. Study hard, play with joy, and make lots of new friends. That’s how you’ll honour the memory of those you lost.”
It wasn’t a political speech — it was the voice of a human being, a brother, a friend, offering warmth to those who needed it most. His interactions weren’t staged, nor accompanied by grandstanding. They reflected a sincere attempt to connect, to heal wounds that bullets and bombs had left behind.
A Lifeline for 22 Children and Counting
Tariq Hameed Karra, the Pradesh Congress Committee president, confirmed that Rahul Gandhi had personally instructed party workers to prepare a detailed list of school-going children in the region who had lost their parents — especially those who were primary breadwinners.
“Rahul ji wanted to ensure that these children’s education is not disrupted. His message was simple: ‘Let them dream, let them learn, and let them heal with dignity.’”
A total of 22 children from Poonch have been identified so far, with more likely to be added as Karra continues his three-day tour of the region to assess the damage and extend support.
He added that financial assistance meant for the children’s schooling — sent by the Leader of the Opposition himself — would be personally handed over to the affected families, starting Tuesday.
“This initiative is not a handout — it is a hand held out in solidarity. These children have already suffered so much. Their dreams should not become casualties of violence.”
