In a Healthy Democracy, the ruling party and the opposition have a responsibility to the country and surely the people will judge them in discharging that responsibility. ~R VENKATARAMAN
Can Power Be Captured Through Gandhian Methods?
In modern Indian history, Padayatras (long foot marches) have played a significant role, especially in politics. Mahatma Gandhi made the most successful and impactful use of this method.
His Dandi March (1930) against British rule remains one of the most powerful examples of nonviolent resistance.
Even today, Indian politicians try to associate themselves with Gandhi’s ideas and methods. His influence on Indian politics is undeniable, and his legacy continues to shape public movements.
But the big question remains—can political power be won through Gandhian methods today?
Gandhi’s approach was based on truth, nonviolence, and mass mobilization. It worked against a colonial power, where moral pressure and public participation played a huge role. However, in modern electoral politics, winning power requires strategy, organization, and strong leadership. While mass movements can influence public opinion, converting that into electoral success is not always guaranteed.
Gandhian methods can still create waves, but whether they can bring about a complete political change depends on public support, leadership, and the ability to translate ideals into action.
Walking for Change Bharat Jodo Yatra
What is Bharat Jodo Yatra?
Bharat Jodo Yatra means “Unite India March.” The Congress party calls it a movement and is urging people across the country to join.
Congress claims that inflation is high, unemployment is rising, and divisive forces are threatening national unity. They say this yatra is an effort to bring people together and address these issues.
There are also discussions about increased violence against minorities and women. Congress accuses the central government of favoring big businesses and ignoring common people’s problems.
However, such allegations are common in every democracy. Opposition parties always criticize the ruling party, no matter what.
The Purpose of Bharat Jodo Yatra According to Congress
The Congress Party believes that the present government has failed on every front. It claims that inflation is at its peak, unemployment is rampant, and divisive forces threaten national unity. In response, Congress launched the Bharat Jodo Yatra, aiming to bring people together and address these pressing issues.
Discussions surrounding the yatra have also touched on rising incidents of violence against minorities and women. Congress accuses the central government of favoring capitalist interests over the common people. However, such allegations are common in democracies worldwide, where opposition parties frequently criticize those in power.
What Did Mahatma Gandhi Gain from the BIG WALK?
The most famous BIG WALK (padayatra) by Mahatma Gandhi was the Dandi March in 1930. He covered nearly 400 kilometers from Ahmedabad to Dandi in 24 days.
This march had two key purposes:
Symbolic Purpose: Breaking the British-imposed Salt Law as an act of civil disobedience.
Real Purpose: Gandhi aimed to reignite the independence movement and draw global attention to British imperialism.
By the 1920s, Mahatma Gandhi was already a household name in India. He knew that his padayatra would be widely covered by both national and international media, helping him expose British rule on a global stage. The march successfully revitalized India’s independence movement.
Will Rahul Gandhi’s Padyatra Yield Similar Results?
While Congress may gain some traction among young voters through the Bharat Jodo Yatra, it remains uncertain whether this effort will significantly impact elections.
Rahul Gandhi has also made conscious efforts to visit major temples along his route, attempting to counter allegations of Muslim appeasement while still appealing to minority voters.
However, unlike Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March, which captured international headlines, the Bharat Jodo Yatra has struggled to attract mainstream media attention. Its discussions seem mostly confined to social media platforms.
Additionally, Rahul Gandhi faces internal challenges within his party. Unlike Gandhi, who was a unifying leader, Rahul remains entangled in issues of dynastic politics—a factor that serves as both his greatest strength and his biggest weakness.
Had the Bharat Jodo Yatra taken place a decade ago, it might have produced better results. However, in today’s digital age, mass movements no longer have the same impact.
Social media has artificialized political mobilization, making it difficult to generate real grassroots momentum.
Bharat Jodo Yatra: A Closer Look at the Varanasi Event
Congress organized the Bharat Jodo Yatra across major Indian cities, including Varanasi. I joined the rally for about five kilometers to observe it firsthand.
Bharat Jodo Yatra or a Carnival of Senior Citizens?
One major takeaway from the event was Congress’s disconnect with the youth. Unlike other political rallies, where young people are often at the forefront, this march was dominated by senior citizens.
I did spot a few young attendees, but most had accompanied their fathers or grandfathers.
This absence of youth is a serious warning sign for Congress. Without strong youth participation, the party risks fading further in future elections.
If Congress does not take deliberate steps to engage young voters, it may struggle for survival in the coming years.
While Bharat Jodo Yatra seeks to revive Congress’s presence, its actual impact remains highly uncertain.
Political movements today demand more than just padayatra; they require a strong ideological foundation and a deep connection with the aspirations of the people—something Rahul Gandhi has yet to establish.
