Another Yatra to boost Congress’ fortunes is set to start, but will it be a seamless effort?

Rahul Gandhi's Nyay Yatra is making headlines even before its start, not so much for its objectives but if it would ever happen. After being denied permission by the Manipur Government to start the Yatra from there, Rahul’s path in pursuit of justice has hit a political roadblock. As the Congress gears up to launch the Nyay Yatra on January 14, a cloud of controversy hovers over its kickoff in Manipur. Rahul's journey aims at highlighting issues of economic inequality and social injustice across the country. The initiative is expected to shed light on the Congress party's vision for addressing these challenges and providing "Nyay" or justice to people. If the standoff persists, it could lead to an ugly spat or even a legal battle as Congress has made it clear it will start the Yatra from Manipur, come what may. But this tussle could divert attention from the Yatra's core agenda. A better approach would be to alter the route rather than go on the course of an altercation with the Government. Besides, the situation in Manipur is still volatile and the Yatra could exacerbate that. With the Nyay Yatra, as with the earlier Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul aims to engage with people from different sections of society, understanding their concerns and amplifying their voices.

The Nyaya Yatra, which translates to "Justice March," is essentially a political campaign organised by the Congress party to focus on economic disparities and social injustices prevailing in various parts of India, with an eye on the upcoming general elections. Congress party obviously is in the election mode and is using this Yatra to test the public mood. The agenda revolves around inclusive growth and equitable distribution of resources. The issue of unemployment is at the core of Rahul's ‘economic despair’ pitch. The Yatra also seeks to address issues related to caste, religion and gender-based discrimination, emphasising the need for a more equal society. Given the challenges in the agricultural sector, the Yatra will also bring to light the difficulties faced by farmers and advocate for policies that support their welfare. The Nyay Yatra is expected to highlight the concerns of unemployment among the youth and publicise Congress' strategy to create job opportunities. To be fair to the Gandhi scion, he has all the right to go on a foot march anywhere in the country. He and his party are doing what any political party is supposed to do: Establish a dialogue with people, listen to their concerns and give them space in their election manifesto. Besides, it would be an opportunity for people to know what the party and its leaders have to offer. Rahul's Nyay Yatra has the potential to address critical issues of economic and social justice in India. These are the issues that the BJP must also be concerned about and would do well to launch a ‘meet the people’ campaign along the lines of Rahul’s Yatra.