The picturesque river island of Majuli, nestled in the Brahmaputra River, is set to host a significant chapter of Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. As the Assam Congress unit gears up for the visit, anticipation is high for the political leader’s arrival on January 19.
A delegation of Congress leaders, led by Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi, recently visited the Auniati Satra in Majuli to discuss Rahul Gandhi’s scheduled visit with the Satradhikar. The historical significance of the Vaishnav monastery is noteworthy, as it once hosted India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, at the invitation of an erstwhile Satradhikar.
Bordoloi emphasized that Rahul Gandhi’s visit is marked by respect for Majuli, as he plans to traverse the region starting from Nagaland, taking a ferry to Majuli, and then proceeding to Arunachal Pradesh. The leader aims to pay homage to the Auniati Satra and engage with heads of other Satras during his tenure in Majuli.
However, allegations have surfaced that the BJP-led government in Assam is attempting to hinder the Yatra’s success by creating obstacles. Bordoloi claimed that events such as the distribution of ration cards are strategically timed to divert attention and deter people from participating in Rahul Gandhi’s Yatra.
Addressing concerns about potential ferry denials, Bordoloi asserted that the Yatra would adapt, even if forced to use country boats. Despite reported restrictions and impediments, he maintained the Yatra’s resilience against governmental interference.
The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, initiated on January 14 from Manipur’s Thoubal district, spans 15 states, covering 100 Lok Sabha seats. Rahul Gandhi’s ambitious plan involves traversing over 6,700 kilometers in 67 days, passing through 110 districts. Starting in the northeastern states, the Yatra is poised to cut through the north and central regions, culminating in Maharashtra on March 20.
As the Yatra progresses through Assam, January 19 stands out on the itinerary. Rahul Gandhi is set to embark on a ferry ride from Nimatighat to Afalaghat, participate in a roadshow, and engage with Vaishnav religious heads at the Auniati Satra in Majuli. The day will culminate with a roadshow in Dhakuakhana, followed by a night halt at Gogamukh.
In the face of alleged hurdles, the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra continues, symbolizing a political journey that seeks to connect with the diverse tapestry of India, fostering dialogue and understanding across regions and communities.