The Congress has shifted the venue for Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Manipur, moving it from Imphal's Hapta Kangjeibung to Khongjom village in Thoubal district. Former Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi accused the ruling government of employing delaying tactics. Ibobi claimed that the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee chief sought security approval on January 2, but the Home department did not provide clear direction promptly.
AICC Manipur in-charge Girish Chodankar expressed the opinion that the state government appears "nervous" and "scared" of Rahul Gandhi. Despite delays, the government eventually granted permission on January 10 with certain conditions, including limiting the number of participants and requiring their names in advance.
Chodankar highlighted the confusion caused by multiple notifications from the Home Department, stating different participant limits at various times. Rahul Gandhi's yatra is set to cover 6,700 kilometers over 66 days, concluding on March 20 in Mumbai. The Congress urged Chief Minister Biren Singh to prioritize Manipur over party interests and use the yatra to restore peace in the violence-affected state.
Chodankar emphasized that the yatra is not political but a walk for peace and justice for all of India. O Ibobi echoed this sentiment, stating that the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' is open to all sections of society, irrespective of political affiliation, urging the people of Manipur to join for the cause of peace and justice.
