Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to engage with ethnic communities and tea garden workers in north Bengal as part of his upcoming 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.' Aimed at understanding local issues in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections, this initiative aligns with Gandhi's strategy to connect with diverse segments of the population. The campaign, scheduled to reach West Bengal by the end of January, comes as the Congress assesses its standing in the region.
Although north Bengal was historically under Congress control before the Left and Trinamool Congress (TMC) took charge, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made substantial inroads in recent years. Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' serves as a comprehensive outreach effort, spanning from Manipur to Mumbai, with an invitation extended to I.N.D.I.A coalition leader. The campaign holds strategic importance for the Congress central leadership, providing insights into the party's position across various West Bengal districts.
Senior state Congress leader Manoj Chakraborty said “Our leaders in north Bengal are holding meetings with local ethnic groups, such as the Rajbongshi community, hill people and tea garden workers to arrange interactive sessions with Rahul Gandhi. The dates and venues of these meetings are yet to be finalised,”