Imphal, January 14, 2024 – The highly anticipated Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra kicked off today at Thoubal in Manipur, marked by a formal flagging-off ceremony attended by Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. The event, held at Khongjom in Thoubal, brought together national and regional Congress leaders, with Rahul Gandhi inaugurating the Yatra while addressing the ongoing ethnic strife in the state.
Expressing deep concern, Rahul Gandhi highlighted the dire situation in Manipur during his visit, emphasizing the collapse of governance infrastructure since June 29. He criticized the BJP government for its alleged negligence, stating, “It is shameful that till now, the Indian PM has not come here to wipe your tears and hold your hand.”
Gandhi asserted that Manipur has become a symbol of BJP’s hate politics and ideology, pledging that the Congress party would work towards restoring peace in the troubled state. “We will bring back what you have valued – the harmony, peace, and affection that this state has always been known for,” he affirmed.
The day’s itinerary includes a break at Koirengei Bazar in Imphal and an overnight stay at the Koujengleima Sports Association Football Ground in Imphal’s Sekmai. The Congress clarified that the yatra aims to end the “era of injustice” under the Narendra Modi-led government ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
Rahul Gandhi, leading the Yatra over 67 days, seeks to engage with various societal groups, including farmers, laborers, Dalits, tribals, among others. The transformative yatra will cover 6,713 km in buses and on foot, traversing 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 15 states, spanning 110 districts over 67 days. The march is expected to conclude in Mumbai on March 20 or 21, symbolizing the Congress’s commitment to addressing the concerns of the people and fostering national unity.
