Thousands come out to catch a glimpse of Rahul Gandhi in Bhiwandi

As Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi appeared in a Bhiwandi court, near Thane, to face trial in a defamation case, thousands of people thronged the court premises to listen to him.

As Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi appeared in a Bhiwandi court in Thane to face trial in a defamation case, thousands of people thronged to catch a glimpse of him. People made a beeline outside the court and shouted slogans in support of their leader. Children, women and even senior residents were seen holding placards welcoming the vice-president in the textile city.

Congress workers out side the Bhiwandi court, Thane, on Wednesday. (Rishikesh Choudhary)

Congress workers had made all arrangements for his visit and put up the posters starting from Thane. They didn’t even spare the dividers.

While the people thronged to see Rahul, police officials ensured tight security with barricades.The police also used public announcements to ease traffic, but could not prevent tailbacks on the Bhiwandi flyover. Vehicle were allowed inside the court premises only after a thorough security check.

After getting bail, Rahul addressed the people who braved the heat and waited for more than an hour.

Rahul’s visit also resulted in traffic jam at several locations as many motorists were caught in the security snarl. Adesh Bhane, 38, a resident from the court area, said, “I knew about his visit but cannot stop my work. I have been asked by the police to wait near the court till Rahul leaves, but I had to go home for some work.”

When Rahul was about to leave the court premises, many broke the security barricade forcing the police use force to maintain calm.