The political landscape in Assam is heating up as Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urges Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to reconsider visiting the birthplace of Assamese icon Srimanta Sankardeva during the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by Rahul Gandhi, has taken a controversial route through sensitive areas, sparking concerns about potential law and order issues.
Assam CM’s Request and Concerns:
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his concerns on January 21, emphasizing that there should be no competition between Lord Ram and the revered medieval Vaishnav saint, Srimanta Sankardeva. Sarma urged Rahul Gandhi to avoid visiting Batadrava on the day of the Ram temple consecration, stating that it would reflect poorly on Assam. He suggested that Gandhi could visit the birthplace after the consecration ceremony to prevent unnecessary competition.
Srimanta Sankardeva, a saint, scholar, poet, playwright, and social-religious reformer from the 15th-16th century, holds a significant place in Assam’s cultural and religious history. The Chief Minister expressed concerns about the chosen route of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, passing through sensitive areas like Morigaon, Jagiroad, and Nellie. Sarma stated that commandos would be deployed along these routes to ensure security, considering potential law and order situations.
District Commissioners and Superintendents of Police in these areas were directed to increase patrolling and maintain a strict vigil. Sarma emphasized the need for caution due to the sensitivity of the chosen route, urging the Congress party to reconsider its decision.
Congress’ Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Arunachal Pradesh: Rahul Gandhi
On January 20, Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra entered Arunachal Pradesh from Assam, marking the next leg of the 6,713-km-long march that commenced from Manipur on January 14. The Congress leader was warmly welcomed by Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee President Nabam Tuki at the Gumto check gate in Papum Pare district.
A flag handover ceremony took place between Tuki and Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhupen Borah in the presence of senior party leaders from both states. Rahul Gandhi, adorned with traditional Nyishi headgear, proceeded to Doimukh along with hundreds of party workers. The yatra involved stops at various locations, including Doimukh, Naharlagun, Nyokum Lapang, and the Malo Tarin government higher secondary school ground for public rallies and interactions.
Security arrangements were notably elaborate for the Arunachal Pradesh leg of the yatra. Papum Pare SP Taru Gusar highlighted the measures taken, including route lining, sanitization of areas where Gandhi would address the public, and deployment of security forces. Security personnel were strategically placed at key locations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a smooth and secure yatra.
Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra progress
As the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra progresses through the northeastern states, political tensions and security concerns continue to dominate the narrative. The clash between icons – Lord Ram and Srimanta Sankardeva – adds a unique dimension to the unfolding events. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s request for Rahul Gandhi to reconsider visiting the birthplace of the Assamese icon during the Ram temple consecration reflects the delicate balance required in navigating religious and cultural sensitivities.
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The chosen route through sensitive areas has intensified concerns, prompting heightened security measures. The intricate dance between political agendas, religious sentiments, and security considerations will likely shape the narrative surrounding Rahul Gandhi’s yatra as it moves forward. The nation watches as these events unfold, anticipating the resolution of tensions and the continuation of the yatra towards its final destination in Mumbai on March 20.