Congress launches 'UP Jodo Yatra' to regain political footing in west Uttar Pradesh

The Congress party has initiated the 'UP Jodo Yatra,' setting the stage for a strategic move to regain political influence in West Uttar Pradesh and pave the way for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

With a focus on winning back its traditional support base among Muslims and Dalits, the 20-day yatra commenced from Gangoh town in Saharanpur and will traverse through 11 districts and 16 Lok Sabha constituencies characterized by a significant Muslim population.

UP Congress president Ajay Rai expressed the party's intent to challenge the BJP's dominance in East UP after solidifying its presence in the West. The yatra, which began with party leaders offering prayers at the Maa Shakumbhari Siddhpeeth temple, aims to underscore the challenges faced by farmers, laborers, traders, youth, and women who express dissatisfaction with the current government.

By addressing issues such as delayed payments to farmers and the BJP's failure to revise sugarcane rates, the Congress seeks to mobilize support along the sugarcane belt of Uttar Pradesh. The strategic move follows reports suggesting a favorable inclination of the Muslim community toward the Congress in the region, indicating a potential shift in political dynamics.