Congress plans 'padyatras' from Kashmir to Kanyakumari over unemployment
The Congress intends to take out padyatras (foot marches) across the country to raise the issue of unemployment and hold janta durbars (public meetings) to connect with the people. Party leader Rahul Gandhi along with other senior leaders are expected to participate in the year-long events. Called Jan Jagran Abhiyan 2.0, the initiative came for discussion at the party's ongoing Chintan Shivir in Udaipur.
Why does this story matter?
The Congress, through the Chintan Shivir, is contemplating reforms to bring its house in order and become a serious contender to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming elections. The Chintan Shivir comes after the Congress high command was unable to bring political strategist Prashant Kishor onboard to undertake changes. The G-21 group of dissenting Congress leaders has also called for sweeping reforms.
Digvijaya Singh gives detailed presentation
At the meeting, the Chairperson of the Sustained Agitation Committee, Digvijaya Singh, reportedly gave a detailed presentation on the padyatra proposal, which was thoroughly discussed. A similar proposal was also proposed by the Youth Committee as a way to connect with the general public across the country. According to India Today, the Chintan Shivir is trying to resolve ideological, electoral, and managerial challenges.
Proposal almost final: Congress leader
According to a senior Congress leader, "This (padyatra) proposal is almost final. The yatra will be carried out across the country by the party. There is also a proposal to hold janta darbars. It is a move to connect with the people directly."
What is happening at Chintan Shivir?
On the second day of the ongoing Congress's Nav Sankalp Chintan Shivir on Saturday, party President Sonia Gandhi met with Congress general secretaries, state in-charges, and other post-holders such as PCC chiefs and CLP leaders to discuss Jan Jagran Abhiyan 2.0. Rahul Gandhi also attended meetings where Congress's top brass debated issues that would be addressed and nationwide protest campaigns that would be launched.
When was first Jan Jagran Abhiyan launched?
The Congress's first Jan Jagran Abhiyan was an agitation campaign held from November 14 to 29, 2021. It was held in an attempt to reach out to people directly on a variety of issues, including inflation, recession, unemployment, and farm distress.
What are focus areas of Udaipur Chintan Shivir?
According to India Today, the conclave would focus on three primary areas: time-bound reform of the Congress party, preventing divisiveness, and preparing for approaching elections. While deliberations will take place for two days, a proclamation will be documented on Sunday to strengthen the party and make structural changes. A draft of recommendations is expected to be discussed during a Congress Working Committee meeting later.
