In the political arena, where whispers are often treated as war cries, Jairam Ramesh, the seasoned Congress leader, has roared back. Rejecting the BJP’s claims of a preordained victory in the 2024 elections, he asserts, “Tiger zinda hai,” drawing a metaphor from the popular Hindi film, signifying the Congress party’s unwavering fighting spirit. This interview with PTI throws light on Ramesh’s vision for the upcoming elections, the party’s ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,’ and the path to reclaiming India’s democratic spirit.
The interview revolves around two key themes: 1. Congress’ resurgence and its potential to galvanize the Opposition, and 2. the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ as a tool for ideological reinvigoration and highlighting the alleged injustices of the past decade.
A Congress Reincarnation: From Yatra to Ballot Box
Ramesh dismisses the BJP’s narrative of 2024 being a foregone conclusion. He draws a historical parallel to 2004, when despite the “shining India” campaign, the Congress, written off after electoral losses, roared back to power. This historical analogy underpins the belief that even in times of apparent weakness, the party’s resilience can surprise doubters.
However, Ramesh acknowledges the need for a strong Congress to lead a formidable Opposition. This is where the ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ assumes significance. He views it as a crucial step in strengthening the party’s internal fabric and connecting with the masses. He assures that despite Rahul Gandhi’s preoccupation with the Yatra, poll preparations will not be neglected, with meetings held virtually and the campaign taking off when the Yatra concludes.
Justice versus Amrit Kaal: Exposing the “Nightmare” Beneath the Dream
Ramesh rejects the BJP’s rosy picture of an “amrit kaal” (nectar era) and counters it with the stark reality of an “anyay kaal” (injustice era) he believes the last ten years have been. He argues that people will be more swayed by the lived experiences of injustice than the promise of a utopian future. This framing shifts the narrative from aspirational dreams to the ground realities of economic hardship, social inequalities, and political suppression.
The Yatra, in Ramesh’s vision, becomes a platform to amplify these voices of discontent and articulate the Congress’ vision for justice—economic, social, and political. He emphasizes the need to reconnect with the core values enshrined in the Constitution’s Preamble, particularly justice, which will be the focus of this second leg of the Yatra.
Beyond Electoral Calculus: An Ideological Yatra
Ramesh clarifies that the Yatra’s primary purpose is not electoral gain, but rather ideological and organizational rejuvenation. He views it as a means to communicate the Congress’ core message, highlight injustices inflicted on citizens, and offer a concrete vision for the future. While acknowledging the 2024 elections as an important milestone, he stresses that the Yatra transcends electoral calculations and aims to set the agenda for the nation’s political discourse.
Strengthening Democracy and Challenging One-Man Rule
The Yatra, Ramesh asserts, is also about defending democratic institutions and combating the perceived dangers of one-man rule. He highlights the alleged suppression of voices, particularly those of women, farmers, and youth, and seeks to expose the inequalities festering beneath the BJP’s narrative of national progress.
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From Tiger’s Roar to Collective Action: The Road Ahead
Ramesh’s interview transcends mere political posturing. It offers a glimpse into the Congress’ strategy for the upcoming elections, centered around internal revival, highlighting current discontent, and offering a credible alternative vision. The ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ becomes a crucial tool in this endeavour, fostering internal cohesion, amplifying the voices of the marginalized, and rekindling the party’s ideological flame.
Whether this roar translates into electoral success remains to be seen. However, Jairam Ramesh’s interview leaves no doubt about the Congress’ intent to remain a formidable force in India’s political landscape, ready to challenge the narrative and fight for what it believes is a just and equitable future for the nation.
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