Rahul Gandhi's Yatra Ignites Hope in Manipur, Finds Home in a Naga Village

 Khuzama (Nagaland), Jan 15: Former Congress president and the arch adversary of ruling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra today, navigating through the tumultuous landscapes of the violence-ridden northeastern state of Manipur before making his entry into Nagaland, where he now rests for the night.

Enthusiasm reached a crescendo on the streets of Imphal this morning as the news of Rahul Gandhi's presence in Manipur spread through the valleys. A perusal of local Instagram feeds exposed the affectionate embrace with which the scion of the Nehru-Gandhi family was welcomed by the people. Several youngsters journeyed considerable distances just to catch a glimpse of the man they believe will usher positive change into their lives. Mr. Gandhi, in turn, has consistently asserted that it is the people's affection that gives him and his party the strength.

Throughout this eventful day, he stepped out of his custom-made bus on multiple occasions, engaging with locals, embracing youngsters, and graciously inviting several individuals inside his bus. The yatra traversed Kuki and Naga-dominated localities on its second day.

Before bidding farewell, he expressed deep affection for the people of Manipur, affirming that their hopeful eyes are looking towards the entire nation. He emphasized that the country bears the responsibility to wipe away the pain reflected in their eyes. Mr. Gandhi had earlier mentioned his party's commitment to presenting a new vision for India—one grounded in harmony, brotherhood, and equitability, devoid of hatred, violence, and monopoly.

A long cavalcade of hundreds of vehicles followed as the journey transitioned into Nagaland. However, the ethnic divide within Manipuri society remained conspicuous as the yatra advanced. The two sides remained vigilant, cautiously treading to avoid encroaching into regions dominated by the other.

The yatra found a home in Khuzama village, situated some thirty kilometers south of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. Tents dotted the landscape, and the quaint village sprang to life, buzzing with vibrant energy. Men, women, and children of the village have assembled in large numbers, with many not even identifying as Congress party supporters, yet sharing happiness over the presence of a national leader of such stature in their village.

As Mr. Gandhi marches on, the Wild East awaits, promising new chapters of adventure.

(Saket Suman is the author of The Psychology of a Patriot. Views expressed are strictly personal)