The Congress party recently announced the commencement of the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ in Manipur, with spokesperson Mahima Singh shedding light on the motivation behind this unexpected endeavor.
Concern Over the Situation in Manipur
Singh emphasized Rahul Gandhi’s deep-seated concern over the prevailing situation in Manipur. She pointed out that the state has been grappling with volatile conditions, particularly due to the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities, which has claimed the lives of over 180 individuals while leaving several hundred injured since May last year. Singh highlighted Gandhi’s active involvement in understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the people of Manipur, making it a pivotal starting point for the yatra.
Negligence of People’s Issues by BJP
Accusing the BJP of prioritizing “headline management” over addressing the genuine problems of the citizens, Singh underscored that the ruling party has been neglecting the pressing issues affecting the populace. She lamented that the BJP’s governance has predominantly focused on managing public perception while marginalizing the critical concerns of the people.
Yatra’s Objective Beyond Elections
When questioned about the objectives of the yatra, Singh elucidated that it extends beyond mere electoral agendas. She articulated that the overarching ambition is to safeguard the Constitution and uphold the principles of democracy, encompassing a broader vision for the nation’s welfare and governance.
Yatra’s Route and Itinerary
The ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ spearheaded by Rahul Gandhi is slated to embark on a monumental journey covering a staggering distance of 6,713 km, commencing from Manipur and culminating in Maharashtra on January 14. Participants will traverse this extensive route via buses and foot, symbolizing the arduous trek to unite the diverse tapestry of India. In Assam, the yatra is scheduled to unfold from January 18 to 25, with Gandhi traversing 1,833 km across 17 districts in the state.
Consultative Approach and Interaction Opportunities
Bharat Narah, a former minister and MLA, disclosed that during Gandhi’s visit to Assam, provisions will be made for various organizations to engage with the Congress MP and articulate their concerns. This interactive platform aims to facilitate dialogue on vital issues, including the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for six communities, the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Additionally, senior All India Congress Committee (AICC) leaders V C Venugopal and Jitendra Singh are slated to convene a meeting with district party chiefs and state office-bearers on January 9 to deliberate on the preparatory measures for the yatra.
In conclusion, the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ not only serves as a political expedition but also embodies a quest to address the social, political, and constitutional fabric of India. By strategically commencing the yatra in Manipur, the Congress seeks to underscore its commitment to understanding and ameliorating the challenges faced by the people and reinforcing its dedication to upholding the democratic ethos of the nation.
