Rahul Gandhi's Uniting India March: Ignored by media but welcomed by social groups

Another welcome part of Yatra is the proactive response of these social groups and many political parties to affirm the values of pluralism, diversity and democracy. 

Dr Ram Puniyani Oct 06, 2022
Image
Indian Congress Party senior leader Rahul Gandhi (C) arrives in Kanyakumari to join the march.(Photo: Twitter)

The Bharat Jodo Yatra, or the United India March, launched by the Indian National Congress under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, is getting a tremendous response. It is as if the people were waiting for such an event to reaffirm their trust and faith in the composite Indian nationalism. Indian nationalism has been undermined during the last few decades in general and the last few years in particular. While the national media and major TV channels are ignoring the march, social media is partly compensating for that by putting across clips and pictures of people of all age groups associating with the march. 

The response is mainly due to the undermining of what has been the “Idea of India’ of our freedom fighters, the response is due to the blatant bypassing of the values of the Indian Constitution which underline equality on one hand and the state’s obligation to reduce the economic gaps between rich and poor on the other. The Constitution also outlines the role of the State in promoting scientific temper, which has been given a go-by during last some time.

India became a secular nation with an emphasis on caste-gender equality. The kingdoms where the kings ruled with divine authority were replaced by a colonial period in India. During the plunder by colonial rulers, there were other changes that also led to social changes. The introduction of transport, communication, modern education and modern administration provided the ground for changes in caste and gender equations and promoted unity among different religious communities. Those who were the bearers of the feudal mindset kept themselves aloof from this process of nation-making. They helped the British in their policy of divide and rule, leading to the tragic partition and the biggest ever mass migration in the sub-continent.

Communalisation of politics

India did embark on the path of nation-making through anti-colonial struggle. After Independence, there was an enhancement in industrialization, education, irrigation, health facilities and social welfare among others. The sectarian nationalists, Muslim and Hindu communalists, mostly harped on identity issues. In due course, Hindu communalists started dominating and their infiltration into different walks of life and different facets of state apparatus became apparent. Their taking over of media through the sympathetic corporate world was accompanied by the setting up of “social media cells". This weakened the process of the gains of the freedom movement. The major things which were undermined were Hindu-Muslim unity also the slow march toward social justice has been further hampered. Communalization of society also retarded the march towards gender equality.

At the political level, the party which led the freedom movement gradually was infiltrated by opportunist communal elements for which politics is just for grabbing power for their own selves. Many regional satraps also came up with ambitions for regional power with local agenda. The left parties which should have been the upholders of the rights of the marginalized, themselves started getting marginalized.

So today India we see has a situation, where not only the divisive politics of the BJP has tried to co-opt a section of marginalized but also its parent organization RSS, through its various arms, has worked consistently among the Dalits and Adivasis to co-opt them into Hindu nationalist fold. It has also done social engineering through which at grass root level the micro identities have been strengthened. At the same time, mega Hindu identity has been propped up through the issues like Ram temple, love jihad, cow-beef, and fear of Muslims becoming a majority among others.

The Bharat Jodo Yatra probably is the best thing that has happened in India during the last several decades. This will surely strengthen the nation and also cleanse the Congress party. It is also an occasion of churning for social groups, which are committed to the rights of the weaker and marginalized, the groups committed to democratic values, and the groups committed to religious minorities. This Yatra gives them a platform to work for their goals of a humane democratic society with rights and dignity for all sections of society.

Another welcome part of Yatra is the proactive response of these social groups and many political parties to affirm the values of pluralism, diversity and democracy. There are many jarring parts of the Yatra also. The route which it has mapped so far seems to have lesser representation of Muslim majority areas. While we stand to criticize the fundamentalist elements of Muslim leadership, we need to connect to average Muslims (and Christians) who have been the major victims of sectarian politics. Ridiculing Rahul Gandhi for marching with the little girl with a hijab was deliberately played up by the communal forces for sure. The Yatra needs to stand up to associate with the religious minorities, emulating the Father of the Nation.

Promoting peace and harmony

No shortcuts are possible at this stage. The nation has been seriously undermined by the rise of identity politics. The diluting of caste differentials, through affirmative action, has also been retarded. This Yatra is a major landmark and should be the beginning of the process where ‘Iswar Allah Tero Naam and the abolition of caste need to be integrated into the message of the Yatra. It needs to go through the Muslim majority areas and the areas of ex Untouchables with equal frequency.

The message of Bharat Jodo (nafarat chodo, or forsake hate) has been well received for sure. The need now is to give the signal for reduction of economic disparity, and social and gender equality. This is the beginning of the revival of what the majority of Indians identified with during the freedom movement. There is also a need to have backup action for consolidation of the positive energy being generated by the Yatra. This is where the major challenge will be. 

Lakhs of RSS shakhas (units) are the backbone that gives the ground for identity politics and glorification of the past where the caste, class and gender hierarchies dominated the society. The need is to activate the quiescent Rashtra Seva Dal-type organizations, and community centres, which keep promoting the values of peace and harmony that which majority of Indian cherish even today. 

These values of love and peace are very much there, but they have been dwarfed by those forces, which were never a part of the freedom movement and never part of the movements, which made us the Indian nation.  

(The writer, a former IIT Bombay professor, is Chairman, Center for Study of Society and Secularism, Mumbai. Views are personal.) 

Post a Comment

The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.
Melvinnuh
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 04:11
Julian Alvarez <a href=https://manchester-city.julian-alvarez.net/>https://manchester-city.julian-alvarez.net</a> was born in the small town of Calchin, located in central Argentina. From an early age he showed exceptional football skills and at the age of 9 he was noticed by scouts from the local football club River Plate.
Andrewfuh
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 04:15
Angel Di Maria <a href=https://benfica.angel-di-maria.com/>https://benfica.angel-di-maria.com</a> one of the greatest talents in Argentine football, began his path to glory within the walls of the legendary Benfica.
Williamdal
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 08:52
Carlos Alcaraz <a href=https://roland-garros.carlos-alcaraz-br.com/>https://roland-garros.carlos-alcaraz-br.com</a> the young Spanish talent, is making waves at Roland Garros in 2024.
RichardBrods
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 08:54
Alexis Mac Allister's <a href=https://liverpool.alexis-mac-allister.com/>https://liverpool.alexis-mac-allister.com</a> rise in the world of football has been simply breathtaking.
Robertjinia
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 08:55
Edinson Cavani <a href=https://roma.leandro-paredes-br.com/>https://roma.leandro-paredes-br.com</a> was born in Salto, Uruguay, in 1987.
red boost
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 08:57
There are numerous online communities and forums where Aviator Game enthusiasts can share tips, strategies, and
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/red-boost/">red boost</a>
DanielAlele
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 08:59
The name Federico Valverde <a href=https://real-madrid.federico-valverde.com/>https://real-madrid.federico-valverde.com</a> has become an integral part of the history of the great football club Real Madrid.
DavidRox
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 09:00
James Rodriguez <a href=https://sao-paulo.james-rodriguez-br.com/>https://sao-paulo.james-rodriguez-br.com</a> was born in Colombia and showed exceptional football skills from a young age.
PeterKes
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 11:05
Solomon Rondon <a href=https://pachuca.salomon-rondon-br.com/>https://pachuca.salomon-rondon-br.com</a> e um atacante venezuelano nascido em 1989 em Maracaibo, Venezuela. Desde cedo Rondon demonstrou talento e paixao pelo futebol.
Bertramgaina
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 11:07
Luis Diaz <a href=https://liverpool.luis-diaz-brasil.com/>https://liverpool.luis-diaz-brasil.com</a> was born in the small Colombian city of Barrabacas, located on the Caribbean Sea.
red boost
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 12:00
Chasing Losses: Trying to recover losses by betting more can be detrimental.
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/red-boost/">red boost</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 17:45
Future of the Aviator Game
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">buy pills for ed</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 20:47
of chance and strategy. Unlike traditional casino games, the Aviator Game involves a virtual plane that ascends
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">pill for erectile dysfunction</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 03:11
The basic rule of the Aviator Game is straightforward: place a bet, watch the plane take off, and decide when to
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">non prescription ed pills</a>
Thomasimmum
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 04:03
Remove clothes from photo <a href=https://undressai.tech/>undress AI</a> online photo editor
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 09:01
Fair Play Policies and RNG
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">buy ed pill without presciption</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 11:55
can also help in making informed cash-out decisions.
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">best over the counter erectile dysfunction pills</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 14:50
Licensing and Regulation
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">buy generic ed drugs</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 17:49
game was designed to provide an adrenaline-pumping experience that mimics the thrill of gambling with a twist.
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">purchase cheap generic ed online</a>
Harveyskarp
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 19:49
A first-class cryptomixer service <a href=https://kazna.io/>https://kazna.io</a> that anonymizes your cryptocurrency transactions by mixing Bitcoins with others. This BTC mixer is user-friendly and provides a high level of privacy, making it an ideal choice for protecting your digital assets from being tracked. As a Bitcoin mixer, Kazna.io guarantees the security and privacy of your transactions.
Orlandovolla
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 19:55
Портал <a href=https://darkneturl.com/>https://darkneturl.com</a> для тех, кто ищет доступ к скрытым уголкам Даркнета. На сайте собраны удобные ссылки на анонимные форумы, закрытые магазины и другие ресурсы, недоступные в обычной сети. Здесь вы сможете исследовать Даркнет с максимальной конфиденциальностью и безопасностью.
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 20:46
Cash Out: Decide when to cash out to secure your winnings. If you cash out before the plane crashes, you win. If
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">buy ed pills online</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sat, 08/10/2024 - 23:57
become more comfortable with the gameplay. Observing patterns and understanding the timing of the plane's ascent
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">best generic ed pills</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 03:07
The future of the Aviator Game looks promising, with continuous updates and improvements. As technology
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">cheap erectile dysfunction pills online</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 08:59
dynamic features, and social elements, it offers an engaging experience for players. The game is supported by
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">best ed pills non prescription</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:55
Player Reviews and Testimonials
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">generic ed pills</a>
скачати з інстаграма
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 12:11
Торкнувшись значка трьох точок у верхньому правому куті та натиснувши «Копіювати посилання».
erectile dysfunction medication
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 14:50
Over-betting: Betting too much too quickly can lead to significant losses.
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">cheap pills for ed</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 17:46
Common Feedback and Suggestions
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">best pills for erectile dysfunction</a>
erectile dysfunction medication
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 20:48
The Aviator Game is an exciting online casino game that has captivated players worldwide with its unique blend
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/erectile-dysfunction-medication/">ed drugs generic</a>
Richardblith
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 23:27
Купить звуковое оборудование <a href=https://zvukovoe-oborudovanie12.ru/>https://zvukovoe-oborudovanie12.ru</a> с доставкой. Широкий ассортимент звукового оборудования, который придется по душе любому, даже самому взыскательному покупателю.
HubertAsync
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 00:28
The best <a href=https://nudifier.net/>nudifier</a> for realistic photo transformations. Experience AI nudity with our free nudity credits.
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 01:13
Aviator Game. Notable names in the industry have contributed their expertise to ensure the game is both engaging
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">best erectile dysfunction pill</a>
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 04:13
environment for players to enjoy the game. Some popular platforms include <Casino>Name], <Casino>Name], and
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">generic ed medication</a>
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 07:09
demo versions or free play options to allow players to practice before betting real money.
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">ed drug generic</a>
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 10:04
Safety and Fair Play
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">ed pills generic</a>
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 12:59
games that stood out from traditional casino offerings. Inspired by the concept of high-risk, high-reward, the
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">buy ed pills from india</a>
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 15:53
Strategies and Tips
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">otc erectile dysfunction pills</a>
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 18:47
Online Communities and Forums
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">generic ed medicine</a>
Patrickhip
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 20:00
Explore the world of <a href=https://nudify.software/>nudify</a>, these undress apps uses AI to remove clothes from images.
Thomasscuse
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 20:03
Latest news <a href=https://vinicius-junior.pl/>https://vinicius-junior.pl</a> on the Vinicius Junior fan page
MarioWorgo
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 20:04
Discover the extraordinary journey of Kilian Mbappe <a href=https://kylian-mbappe.pl/>https://kylian-mbappe.pl</a> from his humble beginnings to global fame. Learn about his early years, his meteoric rise through the ranks and his impact on and off the pitch.
GenedMed
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 21:50
balancing the risk of waiting longer for a higher payout against the potential loss if the plane crashes.
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">top 10 ed pills</a>
GenedMed
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 00:54
Safety is paramount when playing online games. Players should ensure they are playing on reputable platforms
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">where can i buy ed pills</a>
RichardCrymn
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 01:44
The latest and most relevant <a href=https://techwiseblog.com/>https://techwiseblog.com</a> news of cryptocurrency, technology and marketing
RobertThill
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 01:49
Архив Ростова <a href=https://gosarchro.ru/>https://gosarchro.ru</a> организация, которая специализируется на сборе, систематизации, изучении и хранении архивных документов.
Raymondbuh
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 02:12
On com you'll find the latest news, stats, photos of Mesut Ozil <a href=https://mesut-ozil.pl/>https://mesut-ozil.pl</a> and much more. Get the latest news and information about two of football's greatest players, Mesut Ozil
GenedMed
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 03:56
Advanced Tips for Experienced Players
<a href="https://genedmed.com/blog/">cheap pills for ed</a>
Donaldlop
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 04:00
Ronaldinho <a href=https://ronaldinho.pl/>https://ronaldinho.pl</a> Barcelona - Information, transfer news and statistics.
RobertSep
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 04:01
The best website dedicated to footballer Paul Pogba <a href=https://pogba.pl/>https://pogba.pl</a>. The latest news from the world of football.