Jairam Ramesh Reflects on Four Years of Bharat Jodo Yatra, Calls It a 'Turning Point' in Indian Politics

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Monday recalled the launch of the Bharat Jodo Yatra four years ago, describing Rahul Gandhi's nationwide march as a significant moment that brought renewed hope and energy into Indian politics. The yatra began on September 7, 2022, from Kanyakumari, with Rahul Gandhi visiting the Vivekananda Memorial before starting the journey alongside around 120 other participants known as Bharat Yatris.

Reflecting on the anniversary in a post on X, Ramesh said the march represented a major transformation in contemporary Indian politics. According to him, the journey covered approximately 4,080 kilometres over 145 days, passing through 12 states and two Union Territories before concluding in Srinagar. Ramesh said the campaign attracted support from large numbers of people who were worried about economic inequality, social divisions and what he termed increasing political authoritarianism.

He also highlighted the ideological purpose behind the march. Ramesh said the yatra was intended to challenge what the Congress views as an attack on constitutional values and democratic institutions by the RSS and BJP. He contrasted the approach with one-way political messaging, saying the objective was instead to listen to people's concerns.

The Bharat Jodo Yatra concluded in Srinagar on January 30, 2023, with a large gathering attended by Rahul Gandhi and leaders from several political parties. The Congress had presented the march as an effort to strengthen its connection with the public and bring greater attention to issues such as unemployment, economic inequality and social divisions.

On the fourth anniversary, Ramesh said the campaign should be remembered as a moment that generated fresh optimism, renewed political energy and a stronger sense of resolve. The Bharat Jodo Yatra was later followed by the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in 2024. That campaign focused on themes including social and economic justice, employment, farmers' concerns and other public issues ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Four years after the original march began, the Bharat Jodo Yatra continues to feature prominently in the Congress's political narrative, particularly as the party reflects on its efforts to expand grassroots outreach and address broader social and economic concerns.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.