Delhi Confidential: Next Goal
PARTICIPATING IN a panel discussion on journalist Poonam Agarwal's book — India Inked — Congress leader Pawan Khera and Association for Democratic Reforms co-founder Jagdeep S Chhokar got into a heated exchange over the condition of civil society during different goverenments. Khera felt that civil society was in the ICU under the NDA government's rule, while during the UPA government's time, it was demanding and effective. 'Hamare waqt civil society ka aatank tha (During our time, civil society was terrifying),' he said. Chhokar countered Khera's argument while pointing to the packed hall, which he said was proof of the civil society being alive and active. Khera, the only politician on the panel, was later seen greeting and shaking hands with Chhokar.
AFTER SEVERAL cancellations and postponements, the Congress's workshop for its media department chairpersons from different states is finally happening on Friday. Party sources said the workshop was postponed at least five times in view of the ongoing tensions with Pakistan. The workshop was first scheduled for May 7, but was cancelled after India launched Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. Congress sources said the workshop will be addressed by senior leaders, including party's communications in-charge Jairam Ramesh and OBC department head Anil Jaihind among others. The workshop will include current topics and the caste census to 'sensitise' the party's spokespersons on these issues.
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