Bar Turkish firm from survey for rail line: Rathore

Kuldeep Rathore, All India Congress Committee spokesperson, urged the Central government to debar a Turkish company from conducting a satellite-based survey for the proposed Manali-Leh railway line project.

Rathore, a Congress MLA from Theog Assembly Constituency, expressed strong objections to the involvement of Turkish companies in the project, citing national security risks. Rathore was addressing a press conference here today. He highlighted that the project passes through sensitive areas, including those near the China border.

Rathore further demanded a complete ban on imports from Turkey, including apple, and Azerbaijan, citing their hostile stance towards India.

Rathore appreciated Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) for deciding to ban imports from Turkey and Azerbaijan. He emphasised that trade and hostility cannot go together and demanded an increase in the minimum import price of apple from Rs 50 to Rs 100 to protect local farmers and horticulturists in the state.

Rathore appealed to all MPs from the state to raise this issue in Parliament and ensure that the interests of farmers, traders and national security are protected.